What is excited? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of excited

excitedadjective

/ɪkˈsʌɪtɪd//ɛkˈsʌɪtɪd/
Definition & pronunciation of excited

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "excited" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "excited" is divided into two main syllables:

  • ex- (like "ex" in "example")
  • -cited (this is the trickier part)

2. Pronouncing "-cited":

  • "ci" – Sounds like "sih" (as in "sit")
  • "ted" – This is where the confusion often lies. It's not like "ted" as in Theodore. It's more like “det” with a short “e” sound - like the “e” in “bed”. Think of it as a very quick, unstressed “e” sound.

3. Putting it Together:

So, “excited” is pronounced: ek-ˈsaɪ-təd

Let's break that down further:

  • ek - Short "e" sound (like in "bed")
  • ˈsaɪ - (This is the stressed syllable) – The “ai” sound, as in “eye” or “kite.” It's a diphthong (a combination of two vowel sounds).
  • təd – As explained above – “sih” + very short “e” sound.

Tips and Resources:

  • Listen to native speakers: The absolute best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce excited" on Google and you'll find many audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/excited/ – A website with pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "pronounce excited" on YouTube.

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

  • Focus on the "ai" sound: Really practice that "ai" sound in the middle syllable. It’s the key to getting it right.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "excited"?

Usage and examples with the word excited in English

Let's break down how to use the word "excited" in English. It's a really common and useful word, but it's often misused. Here's a breakdown of its usage, with examples:

1. Basic Meaning: Feeling Thrilled and Anticipatory

  • Core Definition: "Excited" means feeling enthusiastic and eager about something that's going to happen or that you're about to experience. It's a feeling of anticipation mixed with pleasure.

  • Examples:

    • "I'm so excited about my birthday party!" (Anticipating a fun event)
    • "She was excited to start her new job." (Looking forward to a new opportunity)
    • "The kids were excited about Christmas." (Looking forward to presents and festivities)

2. Sentence Structure & How to Use It

  • "I’m excited…” - This is the most common way to express you feel excited. It’s often followed by what you’re excited about.

    • “I’m excited to see you!”
    • “I’m excited about the weekend.”
    • “I’m excited to learn more about space.”

  • “He/She/They are excited…” – Used to describe someone else's feeling.

    • “He is excited about the football game.”
    • “They are excited to travel to Italy.”

  • As an adjective (describing something): You can use "excited" to describe a situation, object, or even a person’s enthusiasm.

    • "The crowd was excited." (Meaning the crowd was enthusiastic)
    • "That's an exciting movie!" (Meaning it's an engaging and thrilling movie)
    • "She has an excited energy about her." (Meaning she's lively and full of enthusiasm)

3. Nuances & Related Words

  • Mild Excitement vs. Intense Excitement: "Excited" can range in intensity.

    • "I'm a little excited about the trip." (Mild anticipation)
    • "I'm absolutely thrilled!" (Stronger, more intense excitement)
    • "I'm over the moon!" (Very enthusiastic - a common idiom)

  • Related Words: These words can convey similar feelings, but they have slightly different connotations:

    • Enthusiastic: Generally shows a strong interest and excitement.
    • Eager: Indicates a strong desire to do something.
    • Thrilled: Suggests a very high level of excitement and pleasure.
    • Delighted: Shows a feeling of great pleasure.
    • Anticipated: (as an adjective) refers to something that is expected and looked forward to.

4. Common Phrases & Idioms

  • “I’m buzzing with excitement!”: Means you're extremely excited and full of energy.
  • “I’m on the edge of my seat!”: Means you're so excited and anxious about something that's happening.
  • “Can’t wait!”: An expression of eager anticipation.

5. Things to Avoid

  • Don’t overuse it: Like any word, using “excited” too often can make your speech or writing sound monotonous. Vary your vocabulary.

  • Don’t conflate it with “nervous”: "Excited" and "nervous" can feel similar, but they're different emotions. Excitement is generally positive, while nervousness involves anxiety.

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

  • What are you trying to use "excited" in? (e.g., a conversation, an email, a story?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word excited

Practice with vocabulary excited

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research team was incredibly ________ about receiving the grant, which would fund their groundbreaking project.
  2. Children often become very ________ when they hear the ice cream truck approaching.
  3. The board members were quite ________ to see the quarterly financial reports, hoping for positive growth indicators.
  4. Despite her extensive experience, she felt somewhat ________ before presenting her findings to the international committee.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words describes a feeling of strong enthusiasm and anticipation? a) indifferent b) apprehensive c) excited d) complacent

  2. After months of hard work, the project team felt incredibly ________ and ________ about the successful launch. a) enthusiastic b) relieved c) excited d) discouraged

  3. Receiving the news of the promotion left her feeling absolutely ________ and ________. a) dismayed b) thrilled c) uninterested d) excited

  4. Which word best describes someone who is very keen and dedicated to achieving a goal? a) reluctant b) diligent c) hesitant d) indifferent

  5. The sudden, unexpected announcement of the policy change left many employees feeling completely ________. a) composed b) bewildered c) thrilled d) unconcerned

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The department was really looking forward to the annual team-building retreat.

    • Rewrite:

  2. Her heart raced as she eagerly anticipated the results of the competitive bidding process.

    • Rewrite:

  3. It was clear that he had a strong, active interest in volunteering for the new community initiative.

    • Rewrite:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. excited
  2. excited
  3. eager
  4. nervous

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) excited
  2. a) enthusiastic, c) excited
  3. b) thrilled, d) excited
  4. b) diligent
  5. b) bewildered

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The department was very excited about the annual team-building retreat.
  2. She was extremely excited for the results of the competitive bidding process.
  3. It was clear that he was very enthusiastic about volunteering for the new community initiative.

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