What is evening? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of evening

eveningnoun

/ˈiːvnɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of evening

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "evening" in English. Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The most common and correct pronunciation is:

  • /ˈiːvənɪŋ/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ˈiː - This is the stressed syllable. It sounds like "ee" as in "see." The "ˈ" symbol indicates that this syllable is emphasized.
  • vən - This sounds like "vawn." The "v" is pronounced as it normally is.
  • ɪŋ - This sounds like "ing" as in "sing."

Putting it together, it's a smooth, flowing sound.

Here’s a helpful way to think about it:

Imagine you’re saying "ee-vawn-ing." Don't rush it – give each syllable a little bit of attention.

Resources for Hearing it:


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Usage and examples with the word evening in English

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

1. As a Time of Day:

  • Most Common Use: "Evening" refers to the time between late afternoon and the time you go to bed. It's the period after the daytime and before nighttime.
    • Example: "We're going out for dinner this evening."
    • Example: "I usually read a book in the evening."
    • Example: "The evening air was cool and refreshing."

2. Evening Events/Activities:

  • Social Events: “Evening” often describes events that happen in the evening.

    • Example: "We had a lovely evening at a concert."
    • Example: "They're hosting an evening reception for their new clients."
    • Example: "Let’s plan an evening out."
  • Formal Gatherings: It can denote a more formal occasion.

    • Example: “The evening was filled with polite conversation.”

3. Evening (as a Noun - Refers to the period):

  • You can use "evening" as a noun itself, referring to the time.
    • Example: "I spent my evening relaxing at home."
    • Example: "The evening news was particularly long tonight."

4. Evening (describing something done in the evening):

  • You can use it to describe something that takes place in the evening.
    • Example: "I have an evening class."
    • Example: “He’s having an evening stroll.”

Here’s a breakdown of how it contrasts with other times of day:

  • Morning: The time from waking up to noon.
  • Afternoon: The time from noon to late afternoon/early evening.
  • Night: A more general term for the time after darkness falls, often synonymous with “evening” but sometimes encompassing a longer period.

Phrases Using "Evening":

  • Good evening: A standard greeting used in the evening. (Formal)
  • Have a good evening: A polite farewell.
  • Evening walk: A walk taken in the evening.
  • Evening meal: Dinner (typically eaten in the evening).
  • Evening star: (Astronomical) – the brightest star visible in the evening sky (Venus).

Tips for Using "Evening" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "evening" is usually clear from the context of the sentence.
  • Capitalization: "Evening" is not capitalized unless it's the first word of a sentence or part of a proper noun (like "Evening Standard").

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