What is dependable? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of dependable

dependableadjective

/dɪˈpendəbl//dɪˈpendəbl/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "dependable" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

ˈdɪˌpɛndəbəl

2. Breakdown & Explanation:

  • ˈdɪ: (dee) - This is a short, clear "dee" sound, like the "d" in "dog." The stress is on this syllable.
  • ˌɛnd: (end) - This is a short "end" sound, like "end" - it's not a long “e” like in “enter.” The “ˌ” symbol indicates a secondary stress (less emphasis) on this syllable.
  • də: (duh) - A simple, short "duh" sound.
  • ˈpɛbəl: (peb-ul) - This is where it gets tricky!
    • pɛ: (peh) – A short “eh” sound, like in “bed” or “pet.” It’s not a long “e” like in “eat.”
    • əl: (ul) – A very short, unstressed “ul” sound – almost like a whisper. It’s a schwa sound.

3. Putting It All Together (Slowly):

  1. Say "dee" (ˈdɪ) - emphasize this syllable.
  2. Say "end" (ˌɛnd) – with less emphasis.
  3. Say "duh" (də)
  4. Say "peh" (ˈpɛ) - emphasize this syllable too.
  5. Say "ul" (əl) - very lightly and quickly.

4. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress is Key: The primary stress is on the first syllable ("dee"). This makes a big difference in how the word sounds.
  • The “bəl” sound: The “bəl” part is often the most difficult for non-native speakers. Practice saying it slowly and deliberately, focusing on the short “peh” followed by the very short “ul” sound. Think of it as "peh-ul."
  • Don't over-elongate: Don't draw out the vowels too much. Each syllable should be relatively short and clean.

Resources for Hearing it Pronounced:

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning English as a second language?
  • Are there any specific parts of the pronunciation you’re finding difficult to master?

Usage and examples with the word dependable in English

Let's break down how to use the word "dependable" in English. It's a fantastic word that describes someone or something you can rely on.

1. Meaning:

"Dependable" means reliable; able to be trusted to do what's expected. It suggests consistency, trustworthiness, and a lack of unexpected problems.

2. Parts of Speech:

  • Adjective: This is the most common use. You describe people or things as dependable.
    • Example: "She is a dependable friend." (Describes a person)
    • Example: "This tool is dependable and built to last." (Describes a thing)

3. How to Use it as an Adjective (with examples):

  • People:

    • "He's a dependable employee." – He consistently does his work well and can be counted on.
    • "My sister is a dependable person; you can always count on her." – She’s reliable and trustworthy.
    • "A dependable teacher will always be there for their students." – They're consistent in their support and guidance.
    • "I need a dependable contractor for this repair." - Someone to hire that will actually get the job done as promised.

  • Things (Objects, Tools, Systems):

    • "This car is dependable, even though it’s old." – It’s reliable and doesn’t break down often.
    • "We chose a dependable brand of coffee maker." - A well-known brand that consistently makes good coffee.
    • "Our internet service is dependable, which is important for my work." – It’s consistently available and functional.
    • "This recipe is dependable – it always turns out delicious." – You can rely on it to produce a good result.

  • Systems/Processes:

    • "The company has a dependable system for handling customer complaints." – They consistently address and resolve complaints effectively.
    • "Their marketing strategy is dependable for attracting new clients." - It consistently brings in new customers.

4. Phrases Using "Dependable":

  • “Dependable on”: This means relying on something or someone.

    • "I’m dependable on you to pick me up."
    • “We can depend on his help.”

  • “Dependable source”: A trustworthy source of information.

    • “He’s a dependable source of news about the local area.”

5. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Reliable
  • Trustworthy
  • Consistent
  • Steadfast
  • Faithful
  • Sound (especially for things – “a dependable machine”)

6. Important Nuances:

  • “Dependable” implies a track record. It's not just about wanting to be reliable, but actually being reliable over time.

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

  • What kind of context are you trying to use "dependable" in? (e.g., a personal story, a business report, a creative writing piece?)

Synonyms for the word dependable

Practice with vocabulary dependable

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Maria is considered a highly ____________ employee; she always completes her assignments on time and to a high standard.
  2. To optimize our project timelines, we need to implement more ____________ scheduling software.
  3. Customers expect a ____________ internet connection, especially when working remotely.
  4. The new intern has shown a ____________ effort in learning the complex software system.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following traits are essential for a team member in a high-stakes project? a) volatile b) dependable c) innovative d) consistent
  2. To improve our workflow, we need solutions that are more ____________ and less prone to bottlenecks. a) sluggish b) efficient c) redundant d) disorganized
  3. For research findings to be credible, the methodology must ensure the data sources are both ____________ and consistently produced. a) biased b) vague c) accurate d) dependable
  4. A company's infrastructure must be ____________ enough to withstand unexpected technical outages without significant data loss. a) fragile b) rigid c) resilient d) vulnerable
  5. What qualities would you seek in a mentor who will guide you through your career development? a) erratic b) knowledgeable c) empathetic d) dependable e) supportive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. You can always count on Sarah to meet deadlines. (Rewrite the sentence using "dependable")
  2. The team's success comes from its ability to consistently deliver high-quality results. (Rewrite the sentence using a related form of "dependable")
  3. Despite numerous challenges, the project manager ensured all tasks were completed on schedule. (Rewrite the sentence using a suitable replacement word, but not "dependable" or its forms)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Maria is considered a highly dependable employee; she always completes her assignments on time and to a high standard.
  2. To optimize our project timelines, we need to implement more efficient scheduling software.
  3. Customers expect a dependable internet connection, especially when working remotely.
  4. The new intern has shown a commendable effort in learning the complex software system.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) dependable, d) consistent
  2. b) efficient
  3. c) accurate, d) dependable
  4. c) resilient
  5. b) knowledgeable, c) empathetic, d) dependable, e) supportive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Sarah is an incredibly dependable team member who always meets deadlines.
  2. The team's dependability in delivering high-quality results is key to its success.
  3. Despite numerous challenges, the project manager was diligent in ensuring all tasks were completed on schedule.

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