What is discount? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of discount

discountnoun

/ˈdɪskaʊnt/
Definition & pronunciation of discount

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "discount." Here's a breakdown with phonetics and tips:

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

  • /ˈdɪs.kənt/ (This is the most accurate representation)

2. Breakdown by Syllable:

  • dis: Pronounced like "dis" in "dish" - /dɪs/ (short "i" sound)
  • count: Pronounced like "count" - /kənt/ (The "c" is pronounced like a "uh" sound before the "nt")

3. Putting it together:

Say it slowly: "Dis-count"

4. Tips for Correct Pronunciation:

  • The "c" sound: This is the trickiest part. It's not like the "c" in "cat." It's a schwa sound - a very short, unstressed “uh” sound, similar to the “a” in “about.”
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: DIS-count.
  • Flow: Don't pronounce each syllable distinctly. It's meant to flow together smoothly.

Resources to hear it:

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Usage and examples with the word discount in English

Let's break down how to use the word "discount" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a detailed explanation:

1. As a Reduction in Price (Most Common)

  • Meaning: This is the most frequent use of "discount." It refers to a reduction in the usual price of something.
  • Examples:
    • "There's a discount on all shoes this week."
    • "The store is offering a 20% discount."
    • "I got a discount because I'm a student."
    • "We're giving a special discount to new customers."
  • Grammar: It’s often followed by the amount of the reduction (e.g., “a 10% discount,” “a large discount”).

2. As a General Reduction or Decrease (Broader Sense)

  • Meaning: “Discount” can also mean a reduction in something other than price. It represents a lessening or reducing of something’s importance, value, or influence.
  • Examples:
    • "He discounted her opinion because he didn't agree with it." (Reduced its value)
    • "The economist discounted the possibility of a recession." (Lowered the probability)
    • "We need to discount the rumors – they’re probably not true." (Minimize their importance)
    • "The company discounted the risk of losing its main supplier." (Minimized the risk)

3. As a Verb (To Reduce, Lower)

  • Meaning: “Discount” can be used as a verb to describe the act of reducing something’s value or importance.
  • Examples:
    • "Investors discounted the company's earnings report." (They treated the report as less important)
    • “The market quickly discounted the news of the merger.” (The market reacted by lowering the price/value accordingly)

4. "Discount Code" & "Discount Rate" (Specific Phrases)

  • Discount Code: A code you enter online to receive a discount. "Use this discount code at checkout!"
  • Discount Rate: Often used in finance and economics, it refers to the percentage at which something is discounted (e.g., “the interest discount rate”).

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Noun Reduction in price "There's a 50% discount on furniture."
Noun Reduction in importance/value "I discounted her suggestion."
Verb To reduce, lower, or minimize "They discounted the threats."
Phrase Code for a discount "Enter the discount code 'SUMMER20'."
Phrase Percentage applied to a value "The discount rate is 8%."

Tips for Using "Discount" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Be specific: If possible, state the amount of the discount ("a 20% discount") for clarity.

Can you give me an example sentence you'd like me to analyze, or a specific situation where you're unsure how to use "discount"? I can help you refine your usage even further!

Synonyms for the word discount

Practice with vocabulary discount

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. As a valued customer, you are eligible for a 15% ______ on all purchases made this week.
  2. The city council approved a new tax ______ for businesses that invest in renewable energy sources.
  3. The retail chain offered a significant ______ on winter apparel during its end-of-season clearance event.
  4. After submitting the necessary paperwork, customers can claim a $75 ______ on their recent appliance purchase.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following terms typically refers to a reduction in the standard price of an item or service? a) Surcharge b) Premium c) Discount d) Markup

  2. To encourage timely payments, a supplier might offer a 2% ______ on invoices paid within ten days. a) penalty b) discount c) commission d) levy

  3. Which of the following strategies aim to reduce the final cost for a buyer? a) Imposing an additional fee b) Offering a quantity discount c) Providing a governmental subsidy d) Increasing the retail price e) Applying a manufacturer's rebate

  4. The charitable organization provided financial ______ to families struggling with medical expenses. a) compensation b) assistance c) penalty d) deficit

  5. Despite being a discontinued model, the electronics store managed to sell the television at a considerable ______. a) premium b) bargain c) collateral d) surcharge

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. If you settle the invoice within a week, the company will reduce the total amount owed by a small percentage.

    • Rewrite the sentence, using a form of "discount".

  2. The price of the older models was lowered significantly to make room for new inventory.

    • Rewrite the sentence, using a form of "discount".

  3. Employees who use their personal vehicles for company business can claim back the cost of their fuel.

    • Rewrite the sentence, without using "discount" or its related forms.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. discount
  2. rebate
  3. discount
  4. allowance

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) Discount
  2. b) discount
  3. b) Offering a quantity discount, c) Providing a governmental subsidy, e) Applying a manufacturer's rebate
  4. b) assistance
  5. b) bargain

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company will offer a small discount if you settle the invoice within a week.
  2. The older models were heavily discounted to make room for new inventory.
  3. Employees who use their personal vehicles for company business can claim reimbursement for the cost of their fuel.

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