What is concentration? Pronunciation and usage in English

concentration means . Learn how to pronounce and use concentration through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of concentration

concentrationnoun

/ˌkɒnsnˈtreɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of concentration

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "concentration" in English. It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables: It’s typically divided into three syllables:

  • con - (like the beginning of "cone")
  • cen - (rhymes with "pen")
  • trac - (rhymes with "track") - This is the tricky part!

2. Sounds Breakdown:

  • con: Pronounced like the "con" in "cone."
  • cen: Pronounced with a “short e” sound, like in “pen.” It’s not like “send” or “cent.”
  • trac: This is where most people stumble! It’s a tricky “tr” sound followed by a “ck” sound. Here's how to approach it:
    • "tr": Say "tr" quickly and smoothly.
    • "ck": Follow the "tr" with a quick “ck” sound, similar to the end of “back.” Don't draw it out. It's almost like a barely-there "k."

3. Putting it together:

Say it slowly at first: “con-cen-tra-c-tion”

Then, gradually speed it up. The key is to blend the syllables smoothly.

4. Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't over-emphasize the "tra": It's a subtle connection, not a distinct syllable.
  • Avoid sounding like “con-cen-tra-SHUN”: The “shun” sound is incorrect.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get it right is to hear how it’s pronounced. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "concentration" in Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear the pronunciation.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/concentration/ - Forvo has pronunciations from native speakers around the world.

Resources for Hearing it:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Focus on a specific part of the word (e.g., just the “tra” part)?

Usage and examples with the word concentration in English

Let's break down how to use the word "concentration" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings! Here's a detailed explanation, broken down into categories:

1. As a Noun (Referring to a state of mind):

  • Meaning: This is probably the most common usage. It refers to a state of focused attention, especially on a particular task or activity. It’s about being able to block out distractions and focus intensely.

  • Examples:

    • "She needs to improve her concentration if she wants to pass the exam." (Focusing)
    • "The lack of concentration made it difficult to read the complex instructions." (Attention span)
    • "Meditation can help increase concentration." (Mental focus)
    • “He lost his concentration during the game and made several mistakes.” (Ability to stay focused)

2. As a Noun (Referring to a substance):

  • Meaning: This refers to the amount of a substance present in a particular volume or area. Think of it like "density" but specifically for a chemical or material.

  • Examples:

    • "The concentration of salt in the water was too high." (Amount of salt)
    • “Scientists studied the concentration of pollutants in the river.” (Level of pollution)
    • "The pharmacist carefully measured the concentration of the drug." (Amount of medication)

3. As a Verb (Meaning to focus):

  • Meaning: This means to direct one’s attention or efforts toward something.

  • Examples:

    • "Please concentrate on your work." (Focus on a task)
    • "He tried to concentrate on the speaker, but his mind wandered." (Direct attention)
    • “I need to concentrate all my energy on finishing this report.” (Direct effort)

4. Phrases Using "Concentration":

  • Concentration span: (noun) – The length of time someone can maintain focus. “She has a short concentration span.”
  • Concentrated effort: (noun) – Great effort put into a specific task. “He put concentrated effort into learning the new language."
  • To concentrate someone (on something): (verb phrase) – To direct someone’s attention. "The teacher tried to concentrate the students on the lesson."
  • High concentration: (adjective) – A large amount. “There’s a high concentration of tourists in the area during the summer.”

Tips for Using "Concentration" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "concentration" depends heavily on the context. Pay attention to how it's being used in the sentence.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms like “focus,” “attention,” “intensity,” or “level” to avoid repetition and clarify your meaning.
  • Distinction between 'concentration' and 'concentrate': "Concentration" is a noun. "Concentrate" is a verb (to focus). Don’t confuse them.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you trying to use "concentration" in? (e.g., school, work, a personal situation, a scientific discussion?)

Synonyms for the word concentration

Practice with vocabulary concentration

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Maintaining high levels of ______ is crucial for data analysts when reviewing large datasets.
  2. Her unwavering ______ to the project ensured its successful completion despite numerous obstacles.
  3. The report highlighted an alarming ______ of harmful chemicals in the local water supply.
  4. Frequent interruptions can lead to significant ______ and reduced productivity in the workplace.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. After a long day of meetings, my ______ on the complex financial report began to wane. A) focus B) concentration C) distraction D) fatigue

  2. The online seminar required active ______ from all participants to fully grasp the intricate concepts. A) inattention B) participation C) engagement D) apathy

  3. The high ______ of pollutants in the atmosphere of the industrial zone raised serious environmental concerns. A) dilution B) concentration C) dispersal D) scarcity

  4. To truly excel in advanced mathematics, one needs exceptional ______ and meticulous problem-solving skills. A) carelessness B) concentration C) absent-mindedness D) attentiveness

  5. The recent downturn in the market demanded a swift and decisive ______ from the company's executive team. A) inaction B) resolution C) solution D) hesitation

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. It's difficult to pay full attention to your studies with so much background noise. Rewrite using a form of "concentration":

  2. The amount of active ingredient in this medication is very strong. Rewrite using a form of "concentration":

  3. The team needs to put all their efforts into developing a new marketing strategy. Rewrite without using "concentration" or related word forms:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Maintaining high levels of concentration is crucial for data analysts when reviewing large datasets.
  2. Her unwavering dedication to the project ensured its successful completion despite numerous obstacles.
  3. The report highlighted an alarming concentration of harmful chemicals in the local water supply.
  4. Frequent interruptions can lead to significant distraction and reduced productivity in the workplace.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. A) focus, B) concentration
  2. B) participation, C) engagement
  3. B) concentration
  4. B) concentration, D) attentiveness
  5. B) resolution, C) solution

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The background noise makes it difficult to maintain concentration on your studies.
  2. The concentration of active ingredient in this medication is very high.
  3. The team needs to dedicate all their efforts to developing a new marketing strategy.

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