What is enthusiasm? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of enthusiasm

enthusiasmnoun

/ɪnˈθjuːzɪaz(ə)m//ɛnˈθjuːzɪaz(ə)m/
Definition & pronunciation of enthusiasm

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "enthusiasm." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown with phonetic guides and tips:

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

ˈɛnθəˌziːəm

Let's look at each part:

  • ˈɛn - This is the stressed syllable. It sounds like "en" as in "pen" but a little bit shorter and sharper.
  • θə - This is a "th" sound, like in "thin" or "this." It's a dental fricative – your tongue lightly touches your teeth.
  • ˌziː - This sounds like "zee" as in "zebra." It’s a clear “z” sound.
  • əm - This sounds like "um" as in "hum." It’s a short, unstressed vowel.

2. A Step-by-Step Guide to Saying It:

  1. Start with "en": Say "en" quickly and briefly, with a slightly tightened mouth.
  2. Add the "th": Make the "th" sound – it’s like you’re gently pushing your tongue behind your top teeth. Don't let it sound like a "s" or "d."
  3. Say “zee”: Follow the "th" with a clear "zee" sound.
  4. Finish with "um": Finally, say “um” very quickly and subtly. It’s almost like it blends into the "zee."

3. Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • The "th" sound is key: Many people struggle with the "th" sound. Practice it separately. Try words like "thin," "this," "think," and "that."
  • Don’t over-emphasize the "um": The final "um" is very short and quiet. It's often barely noticeable.
  • Stress: Make sure the first syllable ("en") is stressed. This is what gives the word its energy.
  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it said correctly. Search for "how to pronounce enthusiasm" on YouTube or use online dictionaries like Merriam-Webster or Cambridge. Listen carefully and try to mimic the sounds.

4. Resources for Hearing It:

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

  • Are you having a particular difficulty with a part of the word (e.g., the "th" sound, the stress)?

Usage and examples with the word enthusiasm in English

Let's break down how to use the word "enthusiasm" in English. It's a great word with a lot of nuance!

1. Core Meaning:

At its most basic, "enthusiasm" refers to a strong feeling of excitement and interest about something or someone. It's more than just liking something; it's a passionate, eager, and often energetic feeling.

2. Parts of Speech & How to Use It:

  • Noun: This is the most common usage. It’s the thing you feel.

    • Example: “She showed a great enthusiasm for learning a new language.” (Here, "enthusiasm" is the subject of the sentence – what she showed.)
    • Example: “His enthusiasm was contagious.” (Here, "enthusiasm" is the object of the verb "was.")
    • Example: "The team responded to his enthusiasm with renewed vigor." (Here, "enthusiasm" is the object of the verb "responded.")

  • Adjective: Used to describe people or things that have that feeling.

    • Example: “She has an enthusiastic personality.” (Describes her personality - she's naturally excited and eager.)
    • Example: “He gave an enthusiastic presentation.” (Describes the presentation – it was delivered with energy and excitement.)
    • Example: “The children were enthusiastic about the trip.” (Describes the children – they were very excited.)

3. Common Phrases & Expressions with "Enthusiasm":

  • Show enthusiasm: (verb phrase) – “He showed enthusiasm for the project.”
  • Lack enthusiasm: (verb phrase) – “She lacked enthusiasm for the task.”
  • With enthusiasm: (adverbial phrase) – “He completed the work with enthusiasm.”
  • Full of enthusiasm: (adjective phrase) – “She is full of enthusiasm for her new job.”
  • Express enthusiasm: (verb phrase) – “He expressed his enthusiasm for the idea.”
  • Enthusiastic about...: (adjective + preposition) – "She's enthusiastic about gardening."
  • Fuel enthusiasm: (verb phrase) – “Sharing the good news fueled his enthusiasm.”

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Excitement
  • Passion
  • Zeal
  • Eagerness
  • Interest
  • Ardor (a stronger, more intense feeling)

5. Examples in Sentences (Showing various uses):

  • “The students' enthusiasm for the history lesson was evident in their questions.” (Noun - describing a feeling)
  • “She is an enthusiastic volunteer at the local animal shelter.” (Adjective - describing her personality)
  • “He delivered his speech with enthusiasm.” (Adverbial phrase)
  • “Despite the challenges, he maintained his enthusiasm for the project.” (Noun - the feeling itself)
  • “Her enthusiastic support helped the team win the game.” (Adjective - describing her support)

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

  • What are you trying to use "enthusiasm" in? (e.g., writing a story, an email, a conversation, etc.)
  • Can you give me a specific sentence where you're thinking of using the word?

Synonyms for the word enthusiasm

Practice with vocabulary enthusiasm

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Her _______ for the new marketing campaign was evident in every meeting, driving the team forward.
  2. The professor's _______ for ancient history was contagious, making even complex topics engaging for students.
  3. Successful project management requires meticulous planning and strong _______ to deadlines.
  4. Public speaking often demands not only clear articulation but also a degree of _______ to engage the listeners effectively.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The startup's founder approached the investor meeting with immense ______ for their groundbreaking idea. A) apathy B) fervor C) disinterest D) enthusiasm E) reluctance

  2. Despite the initial setbacks, the volunteer group never lost their ______ to make a difference in the community. A) zeal B) lethargy C) indifference D) enthusiasm E) ardor

  3. To truly excel in a creative field, one often needs a deep passion and genuine ______ for the craft. A) dread B) indifference C) eagerness D) passion E) enthusiasm

  4. After a long and difficult negotiation, both parties expressed their ______ to find a mutually beneficial resolution. A) reluctance B) willingness C) hesitation D) enthusiasm E) apprehension

  5. The CEO emphasized that innovation requires not just clever ideas, but also the ______ to see them through. A) complacency B) perseverance C) apathy D) determination E) indifference

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Rewrite the following sentence using "enthusiasm" or a related word form: Original: She was incredibly keen about starting her new role at the tech company.

  2. Rewrite the following sentence using "enthusiasm" or a related word form: Original: The audience responded with great excitement to the keynote speaker's vision for the future.

  3. Rewrite the following sentence, but do not use "enthusiasm": Original: Despite the lack of interest from some team members, the project manager maintained a positive outlook.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. enthusiasm
  2. enthusiasm
  3. commitment
  4. confidence

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. B) fervor, D) enthusiasm
  2. A) zeal, D) enthusiasm, E) ardor
  3. C) eagerness, D) passion, E) enthusiasm
  4. B) willingness
  5. B) perseverance, D) determination

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She approached her new role at the tech company with immense enthusiasm.
  2. The keynote speaker's vision for the future generated considerable enthusiasm among the audience.
  3. Despite the lack of interest from some team members, the project manager maintained a positive optimism.

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