What is extra? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of extra

extraadjective

/ˈɛkstrə/
Definition & pronunciation of extra

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

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ɛkˈstrɑː/ (ek-STRAH)

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. ek: Pronounced like the "e" in "bed." It's a short, quick sound.
  2. strah: This is where it gets tricky.
    • str: Pronounced like "str" in "street."
    • ah: This is a short, open "ah" sound, like the "a" in "father." It’s not like the "a" in "cat."

Key Points & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "ex-tra": You'll hear people say it that way, but it's incorrect. The "x" is silent.
  • The "a" sound is crucial: The "strah" part is the most common stumbling block. Focus on that short, open "ah" sound.
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the second syllable ("strah").

Resources to Help You Hear It:

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  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly for you?
  • Compare it to a similar-sounding word?

Usage and examples with the word extra in English

Let's break down how to use the word "extra" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As an Adjective – Meaning “Excessive” or “More Than Enough”

This is probably the most common use of "extra" today. It describes something that is beyond what's needed or expected.

  • Example: "I ordered an extra large pizza because I was really hungry." (More than the usual size)
  • Example: "She spent extra money on decorations for the party." (More than she needed to)
  • Example: "Don't be so extra; you're overreacting." (Exaggerated or dramatic)
  • Example: "That's extra spicy! I can't handle it." (More spicy than normal)

2. As an Adjective – Meaning “Unnecessary” or “Superfluous”

Similar to excessive, but focusing on something not required at all.

  • Example: “Adding that detail is extra.” (It's not needed.)
  • Example: “The instructions were a bit extra – I could have figured it out without them.” (Overly detailed and not essential)

3. As a Noun – Meaning “A Supplementary Item” or “Something Added On”

This is where things get a little trickier. “Extra” as a noun refers to something added on to something else. It's frequently used in the context of purchases or services.

  • Example: "I bought extra tickets just in case." (Additional tickets)
  • Example: “Can I get an extra side of fries?” (An extra portion)
  • Example: “They charged me extra for the delivery.” (An added fee)
  • Example: “I bought an extra battery for my phone.” (An additional battery)

4. (Slang/Informal) – Meaning “Dramatic,” “Over-the-Top,” or “Showy”

This usage is particularly common in youth culture and online communication. It’s used to describe someone or something that is flamboyant, excessively stylish, or attention-seeking. This is where the phrase "extra" gained a lot of traction in recent years.

  • Example: “She’s so extra with her outfits.” (Her outfits are very flashy and extravagant)
  • Example: “That's an extra reaction!” (An overblown or dramatic response)
  • Example: “He’s being extra about the small details.” (He’s focusing too much on unimportant things)

Key Differences to Remember:

  • Extra (adjective): Focuses on amount – more than needed.
  • Extra (noun): Focuses on items – something added on.
  • Extra (slang): Focuses on behavior – dramatic or over-the-top.

Resources for More Examples:

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  • In what context are you trying to use the word "extra"? (e.g., are you writing a story, talking to a friend, etc.?)

Synonyms for the word extra

Practice with vocabulary extra

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Students who need ____ support can schedule a session with a tutor to review difficult concepts.
  2. We had to put in ____ hours over the weekend to ensure the project was delivered on schedule.
  3. The company decided to provide employees with an ____ bonus this quarter, recognizing their outstanding performance.
  4. When packing for the trip, don't forget to bring a ____ pair of shoes in case the first gets wet.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The team requested ____ resources to accelerate the research process and meet the ambitious deadline. A) supplementary B) vital C) extra D) unnecessary

  2. For those who wish to delve deeper, there will be an ____ session after the main conference to discuss advanced topics. A) optional B) supplementary C) redundant D) extra

  3. Please ensure you pack ____ clothing for the unpredictable weather conditions expected during the outdoor workshop. A) spare B) crucial C) extra D) sufficient

  4. She found it challenging to ____ the vast amount of information presented during the intensive lecture series. A) absorb B) omit C) extract D) include

  5. The new policy grants employees ____ flexibility in their working hours, promoting a better work-life balance. A) enhanced B) limited C) rigid D) undue

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. We need to work more hours this week to complete the project on time. (Rewrite the sentence using "extra".)

  2. The hotel offers complimentary services beyond the standard package, such as a shuttle to the airport. (Rewrite the sentence using "extra".)

  3. Could you please give me some additional details about the proposed budget? (Rewrite the sentence, replacing "additional" with a suitable alternative, but do not use "extra".)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. extra
  2. extra
  3. additional
  4. spare

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. A) supplementary, C) extra
  2. A) optional, B) supplementary, D) extra
  3. A) spare, C) extra
  4. A) absorb, C) extract
  5. A) enhanced

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. We need to put in extra hours this week to complete the project on time.
  2. The hotel offers extra services beyond the standard package, such as a shuttle to the airport.
  3. Could you please give me some further details about the proposed budget?

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