What is dissolve? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of dissolve

dissolveverb

/dɪˈzɒlv/
Definition & pronunciation of dissolve

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "dissolve" in English. It can be tricky for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "dissolve" is typically broken down into three syllables:

  • diss - like "dish" (as in, a plate)
  • olve - this is where it gets a little nuanced

2. The "olve" Part - The Key to the Trick:

The "olve" part is the most challenging. It doesn't sound like a typical English vowel. Here’s how to approach it:

  • Start with a short "o" sound: Think of the vowel in the word "hot."
  • Then add a slight "l" sound: Gently blend the "o" with an "l" sound, almost as if you're saying "olv" very quickly. Don't overemphasize the 'l'. It's subtle!
  • It’s not quite “ell”: It’s not pronounced like “ell” (as in, “tell”).

3. Putting it Together:

  • diss (as in "dish")
  • -olve (a short "o" sound blended with a quick "l" sound – think “olv”)

4. Full Pronunciation:

The whole word is pronounced something like: dis-zolv (emphasis on the first syllable – “dis”)

Tips and Resources:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: This is crucial. The best way to learn the subtle sounds is to hear it spoken. Here are some resources:

  • Record Yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

  • Practice Slowly: Don't try to rush it. Break it down into syllables and practice each part slowly before putting it all together.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more examples of words with similar vowel sounds?

Usage and examples with the word dissolve in English

Let's break down how to use the word "dissolve" – it's a versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown of its common uses, with examples:

1. To Melt or Break Down (Especially Solids & Liquids)

  • Meaning: This is the most literal meaning. It refers to something losing its solid form and becoming a liquid or a mixture.
  • Examples:
    • "The ice began to dissolve in the warm water." (Melting)
    • "The sugar dissolved completely in the juice." (Breaking down into a solution)
    • "The chocolate bar dissolved on my tongue." (Melting due to heat and contact)

2. To Fade Away or Vanish

  • Meaning: This describes something gradually disappearing or ceasing to exist.
  • Examples:
    • "The color of the paint dissolved in the sunlight." (Faded)
    • "His memory of the event began to dissolve with each passing year." (Faded from memory)
    • "The fog dissolved as the sun rose." (Vanished)

3. To Resolve (A Conflict or Problem)

  • Meaning: This is a more figurative use. It means to bring an end to a disagreement, tension, or problem.
  • Examples:
    • "The diplomats worked tirelessly to dissolve the conflict between the two countries." (Resolve the conflict)
    • "Talking helped to dissolve the tension in the room." (Ease the tension)
    • "He hoped his apology would dissolve her anger." (Solve her anger)

4. (Law/Legal) To Be Officially Disbanded or Cancelled

  • Meaning: In legal contexts, it can mean to be formally terminated or made void.
  • Examples:
    • "The marriage was dissolved by the court." (Officially ended)
    • "The contract was dissolved due to breach of agreement." (Cancelled)

5. (Chemistry) To React and Form a Solution

  • Meaning: This is a more specialized scientific usage. It refers to a chemical reaction where a solid substance breaks down and forms a solution.
  • Example: "Sodium chloride dissolves in water." (Sodium chloride reacts to form a solution of salt water).

Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Gradual Process: “Dissolve” often implies a gradual process – something isn't suddenly gone, it slowly fades or breaks down.
  • Intransitive Verb: Generally, "dissolve" doesn't take a direct object (you don't say "I dissolve the ice"). It describes an action that happens to something.

Here's a table summarizing the different meanings:

Meaning Example
Melt/Break Down "The snow began to dissolve."
Fade Away "Her memories slowly dissolve."
Resolve Conflict "Negotiations helped dissolve the dispute."
Legal Termination "The partnership was dissolved."
Chemical Reaction "Sugar dissolves in hot water."

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

  • What kind of context are you thinking of using "dissolve" in? (e.g., writing a story, explaining a scientific concept, having a conversation?)

Synonyms for the word dissolve

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