What is electric? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of electric

electricadjective

/ɪˈlɛktrɪk/
Definition & pronunciation of electric

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "electric" in English. It's a tricky one because it's not always pronounced the same way in every dialect! Here’s the most common and widely accepted pronunciation, along with some variations:

1. The Most Common Pronunciation (General American English):

  • ih-LEK-trik

Let's break down each syllable:

  • ih - Like the “i” in “bit” or “sit”.
  • LEK - This is a stressed syllable. Think of it like “leck” – as in, a small amount. Notice the slightly emphasized “k” sound.
  • trik - This syllable sounds like “trick,” but with a slightly shorter “i”.

2. British English Pronunciation:

  • ih-LEK-trik (It's very similar to the American pronunciation. The difference is often very subtle.)

3. Other Possible Variations (less common):

  • el-EK-trik – Some people, especially in certain regions, might pronounce it with a stronger emphasis on the "ek" sound. This is less common.

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable ("LEK"). Don't pronounce it as "el-EC-tric."
  • Short “i” sound: In the “trik” syllable, use a short “i” sound like in the word “bit.”
  • Listen to Examples: The best way to learn is to hear it said by native speakers. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "electric" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear the pronunciation. https://translate.google.com/
    • Youglish: Youglish is a website that shows you how words are pronounced in real-life video. https://youglish.com/ – Search for "electric" and play clips of people saying it.
    • Forvo: Forvo is a pronunciation dictionary with audio recordings by native speakers. https://forvo.com/

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

  • What dialect of English are you interested in? (e.g., American, British, Australian, etc.)

Usage and examples with the word electric in English

Let's break down how to use the word "electric" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and usages. Here's a categorized breakdown:

1. Literally – Relating to Electricity:

  • Definition: This is the most basic meaning – connected to electrical power or current.
  • Examples:
    • "The electric lights flickered in the storm."
    • "He repaired the electric fence."
    • "The electric car is silent and pollution-free."
    • "She studied electric engineering."

2. Describing a Strong, Exciting Feeling (Figurative Use - Most Common Usage):

  • Definition: This is where "electric" is used to describe a feeling of excitement, energy, enthusiasm, or intensity. It’s often used to convey a powerful, stimulating sensation.
  • Examples:
    • "There was an electric atmosphere at the concert." (full of excitement)
    • "I felt an electric connection with her." (a strong, immediate attraction or understanding)
    • "The movie had an electric pace." (fast-moving and exciting)
    • "He gave an electric performance." (remarkable and energetic)
    • "Her voice was electric – full of passion and power."

3. Describing Something Lively and Dynamic:

  • Definition: Used to describe something that feels vibrant, active, and full of life.
  • Examples:
    • "The city had an electric vibe." (a lively and energetic atmosphere)
    • "The dance floor was electric with movement." (full of people dancing energetically)
    • “The museum’s exhibits were electric with innovation.” (showing new and exciting ideas)

4. Adjectives describing a person's energy or charisma:

  • Definition: To describe someone who is vibrant, energetic and captivating.
  • Examples:
    • "She has an electric personality.”
    • “He’s an electric performer, always full of energy."

Key Considerations & Tips:

  • Figurative vs. Literal: Be mindful of the context. If you're talking about electricity, use the literal meaning. If you're describing a feeling, use the figurative meaning.
  • Synonyms: Depending on the nuance you're going for, you might also consider synonyms like: vibrant, energetic, thrilling, stimulating, buzzing, charged, dynamic, potent.

Let's Practice!

Here are a few sentences for you to try, choosing the best word to fit:

  1. The storm caused a blackout, making the street completely _______. (literal/figurative)
  2. Her smile was absolutely ______, making everyone around her smile too. (literal/figurative)
  3. The new technology has an ______ impact on the industry. (literal/figurative)

Answers:

  1. Literal
  2. Figurative
  3. Figurative

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Help you use “electric” in a specific sentence?
  • Explore related words (like “charged,” “charged up,” “buzzing”)

Synonyms for the word electric

Practice with vocabulary electric

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The rapid adoption of _____ vehicles is transforming the automotive industry towards sustainable transport.
  2. The atmosphere in the stadium was absolutely _____ as the crowd roared with excitement during the final moments of the game.
  3. Modern smartphones and computers rely on complex _____ circuits to process information.
  4. The company hired an _____ engineer to oversee the installation of the new high-voltage power lines.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following devices is typically powered by an electric motor? a) Manual coffee grinder b) Blender c) Hand-cranked radio d) Push lawnmower

  2. What phrase best describes a sudden, intense feeling or a highly charged situation? a) A placid calm b) An electric atmosphere c) A serene environment d) A subdued mood

  3. Which of these technologies primarily involves generating or utilizing an "electric" current? a) A traditional clockwork mechanism b) An incandescent light bulb c) A solar panel d) A hydroelectric power plant

  4. Which word best completes the sentence: "The new smart thermostat includes advanced _____ sensors for precise temperature control." a) Electric b) Electronic c) Power d) Charge

  5. After the lightning strike, the entire neighborhood experienced a complete _____ outage. a) Voltage b) Current c) Power d) Static

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Rewrite the sentence using "electric" or a related word form: Original: Vehicles that run solely on battery power are becoming more common. Rewrite: _____

  2. Rewrite the sentence using "electric" or a related word form: Original: The feeling of excitement among the fans was intense and almost tangible. Rewrite: _____

  3. Rewrite the sentence without using "electric" or "electrical": Original: The company is developing new kinds of components that process information digitally. Rewrite: _____

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. electric
  2. electric
  3. electronic
  4. electrical

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Blender
  2. b) An electric atmosphere
  3. b) An incandescent light bulb, c) A solar panel, d) A hydroelectric power plant
  4. b) Electronic
  5. c) Power

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Electric vehicles are becoming more common.
  2. The atmosphere among the fans was electric.
  3. The company is developing new kinds of electronic components that process information digitally.

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