What is gear? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of gear

gearnoun

/ɡɪə/
Definition & pronunciation of gear

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "gear" in English. There are two common pronunciations, and it depends slightly on where you are and what kind of "gear" you're referring to.

1. The Most Common Pronunciation (Mechanical Gear):

  • Pronunciation: /ˈɡɪər/ (guh-er)
  • Breakdown:
    • guh: Like the "guh" in "gum" or "good."
    • er: Like the "er" in "her" or "letter."
  • Emphasis: The emphasis is on the first syllable ("guh").

2. Less Common, But Used for "Gear" as a Verb (To Equip):

  • Pronunciation: /dʒɪər/ (jee-er)
  • Breakdown:
    • jee: Like the "jee" in "jeep."
    • er: Like the "er" in "her" or "letter."
  • Emphasis: The emphasis is on the first syllable ("jee").

Here's a handy tip:

  • Mechanical Gear: Think of it like "gum-er."
  • To Gear (equip): Think of it like "jeep-er."

You can hear examples of both pronunciations here:

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

  • What are you referring to when you say "gear"? (e.g., a bicycle gear, a part in a machine, or using the verb "to gear up" like "we need to gear up for the presentation?")

Usage and examples with the word gear in English

The word "gear" has several different meanings and uses in English! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. Mechanical Gears (The most common meaning):

  • Definition: A toothed wheel or cylinder that transmits rotational motion and force. Think of the gears in a bicycle, car, or clock.
  • Examples:
    • "The bike had worn-out gears."
    • "The engine relies on a complex system of gears to transfer power."
    • "He disassembled the watch to examine the intricate gears."
  • Related words: gearbox, sprocket, pinion

2. Equipment/Tools:

  • Definition: A set of tools or equipment used for a specific task.
  • Examples:
    • "He brought his camping gear." (tents, sleeping bags, etc.)
    • "The rescue team had specialized gear for navigating the terrain."
    • "This toolbox is full of useful gear for DIY projects.”
  • Related words: equipment, supplies, tools

3. A Stage or Area for Performance:

  • Definition: A designated space where performers operate, often in theater or music.
  • Examples:
    • "The dancers moved across the stage gear." (meaning a designated area)
    • “He took a seat on the gear for the play.”
  • Related words: apron, stage area

4. (Informal) – Stuff/Things:

  • Definition: A casual way of referring to a collection of things.
  • Examples:
    • “I need to pick up some groceries – I’m low on gear.” (meaning food)
    • "Don’t forget to grab your gear before we leave." (meaning clothes, supplies, etc.)

5. (Slang) – A Person (particularly a woman):

  • Definition: (Very informal and often considered dated or potentially offensive) - A woman who is sexually available and open to meeting men. Use with extreme caution and awareness of potential offense. It's largely outdated.
  • Example (Avoid unless you understand the strong potential for harm): “He’s always looking for gear at the bar.” (This is highly discouraged.)

6. (Figurative) – A Process or Stage:

  • Definition: A step or phase in a process.
  • Examples:
    • "The project is in its final gear." (meaning the last stage)
    • "We're nearing the end gear of the development process.”

How to Choose the Right Meaning:

The context of the sentence will almost always make it clear which meaning of "gear" is intended. If you're talking about mechanics, it's about the toothed wheels. If you're talking about a hiking trip, it's about the equipment.

Resources for More Information:

To help me give you a more tailored answer, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to do with the word "gear"? (e.g., Are you writing a story, having a conversation, looking up the definition?)

Synonyms for the word gear

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