What is entertain? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of entertain

entertainverb

/ˌɛntəˈteɪn/
Definition & pronunciation of entertain

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

1. Syllables:

"Enter-tain" – It's split into two syllables.

2. Sounds:

  • "En-ter" (en-TER):

    • "En": Pronounced like the "en" in "pen". It's a short, quick sound.
    • "ter": Pronounced like "tuh" – almost like you're adding a slight "uh" sound after the "t." It’s a brief, unstressed syllable.

  • "tain" (tayn):

    • "tah": Pronounced like "tuh" (as in "but").
    • "in": Pronounced like "ih" (as in "it").
    • "t": Pronounced like 't'

3. Putting it together:

It’s approximately en-TER-tayn. The stress (emphasis) is on the second syllable: en-TER-tayn.

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Don't overemphasize the "t": The "t" sound in "tain" is relatively light – don’t make it too forceful.
  • Dropping the vowel: Some speakers might blend the "t" and vowel in "tain" slightly. It’s not completely wrong if it flows naturally for you.
  • Listen to native speakers: This is the best way to get it right! Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "entertain" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear the pronunciation.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/entertain/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers from various countries.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce entertain" on YouTube and you'll find many videos demonstrating the correct pronunciation.

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

  • Do you know how to pronounce other English words? (This gives me a sense of your current level.)

Usage and examples with the word entertain in English

Let's break down how to use the word "entertain" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings, so it's important to understand the context. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. To Provide Amusement or Enjoyment (Most Common)

  • Meaning: To give someone something to do or think about that is fun or interesting. It's about offering a pleasant experience.
  • Structure: entertain [someone] with [something]
  • Examples:
    • "We entertained our guests with a game night." (We provided the game and the amusement)
    • "The comedian really entertained the audience." (The comedian provided the enjoyable performance)
    • "Let's entertain the children with a trip to the zoo." (Let’s give them something fun to do)
    • "She likes to entertain herself with puzzles." (She finds ways to be amused)

2. To Receive Guests (Formal)

  • Meaning: To receive guests for a social event or meal. This is a more formal usage, often implying a polite reception.
  • Structure: entertain [people]
  • Examples:
    • "They entertained a large party last night." (They hosted the party and received the guests.)
    • "The host entertained his guests with dinner and conversation." (He provided the hospitality and interaction.)
    • “The company will entertain visitors next week.” (The company welcomed visitors.)

3. To Consider an Idea or Proposal (Less Common)

  • Meaning: To think about or consider something that’s been suggested. This usage is more figurative.
  • Structure: entertain an idea/proposal
  • Examples:
    • "I'm just entertaining the thought of moving to Australia." (I'm just considering the idea, not necessarily planning it.)
    • "The committee will entertain suggestions for the new project." (They will consider the proposals)

4. To Keep Busy (Informal)

  • Meaning: To occupy yourself or someone else with something to pass the time.
  • Structure: entertain [someone/oneself]
  • Examples:
    • "I like to entertain myself with reading." (I keep myself busy with reading.)
    • "The kids were entertained all afternoon by their aunt." (The kids were amused and occupied.)

Key Differences & Synonyms:

  • Amuse vs. Entertain: “Amuse” often implies a lighter, less involved form of entertainment. “Entertain” suggests providing a more substantial experience.
  • Similar words:
    • Entertain: amuse, divert, engage, occupy, delight
    • Host: (for receiving guests)

Tips for Using "Entertain" Correctly:

  • Context is crucial: Pay close attention to how the word is being used in the sentence.
  • Don't overthink it: In many cases, “entertain” simply means to provide enjoyment.

Can you give me a sentence where you want to use "entertain"? I can then help you refine it and make sure it’s the best way to express your intended meaning.

Synonyms for the word entertain

Practice with vocabulary entertain

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. To foster strong client relationships, our sales team frequently ______ key partners at exclusive corporate events.
  2. Despite the technical difficulties, the keynote speaker's engaging presentation managed to ______ the conference attendees with relevant anecdotes and humor.
  3. Before making a final decision, the committee agreed to seriously ______ all viable proposals submitted by the project teams.
  4. The team leader's positive attitude during the challenging project helped to ______ morale and maintain productivity.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The primary goal of the annual office party is to ______ employees and foster team spirit. a) entertain b) engage c) bore d) motivate e) annoy

  2. The CEO decided to ______ foreign dignitaries at his private residence, ensuring they experienced top-tier hospitality. a) host b) accommodate c) welcome d) entertain e) dismiss

  3. Given the tight budget, the board was reluctant to ______ any new proposals that required significant additional funding. a) consider b) accept c) entertain d) reject e) debate

  4. The challenging puzzle served to ______ the students for a significant portion of their free period. a) distract b) occupy c) bore d) amuse e) ignore

  5. The new marketing strategy aims to ______ a compelling narrative about our brand values to a global audience. a) convey b) provide c) withhold d) transmit e) obscure

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The objective of the annual company picnic was to provide an enjoyable experience for all employees and their families. Rewrite using "entertain":

  2. Original: Despite strong opposition, the board decided to seriously consider the radical new investment strategy. Rewrite using "entertain":

  3. Original: The professor's lecture aimed to hold the students' attention and encourage active participation. Rewrite WITHOUT "entertain":

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. entertain
  2. entertain
  3. consider
  4. maintain

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) entertain, b) engage, d) motivate
  2. a) host, b) accommodate, c) welcome, d) entertain
  3. a) consider, c) entertain
  4. a) distract, b) occupy, d) amuse
  5. a) convey, d) transmit

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The objective of the annual company picnic was to entertain all employees and their families.
  2. Despite strong opposition, the board decided to seriously entertain the radical new investment strategy.
  3. The professor's lecture aimed to engage the students' attention and encourage active participation.

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