What is grave? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of grave

gravenoun

/ɡreɪv/
Definition & pronunciation of grave

The word "grave" has a tricky pronunciation! Here's a breakdown of how to say it correctly in English, with a few options depending on regional accent:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ɡreɪv/ (rhymes with "rave" or "save")

    • ɡ - as in "go"
    • reɪ - the "r" is silent! Say "ray"
    • v - as in "vine"

Regional Variations:

  • Southern US (e.g., Georgia, South Carolina): Often pronounced /ɡreɪv/, but with a slightly more drawn-out "ay" sound – something like /ɡreɪv/’.

  • Some parts of the UK (e.g., Lancashire): Can be pronounced /ɡreɪv/ with a stronger “a” sound as in “day.”

  • Older pronunciations (less common now): Historically, "grave" was pronounced closer to "graff" (as in graph).

Tips for practicing:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it! Search on YouTube for "how to pronounce grave" to hear different voices.
  • Focus on the silent "r": This is the most common mistake. Really emphasize that the “r” is not pronounced.
  • Say "ray" then "v": Mentally break the word down into those two syllables.

Resources for Hearing Pronunciation:

Would you like me to:

  • Record an example of the pronunciation?
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Usage and examples with the word grave in English

Let's break down how to use the word "grave" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a categorized breakdown with examples:

1. Serious/Solemn (Most Common Usage)

  • Meaning: Very serious, important, or solemn. It describes a situation, event, or feeling that is weighty and demanding attention.
  • Synonyms: serious, critical, grave, weighty, somber, solemn.
  • Examples:
    • “The news of the accident was a grave blow to the family.” (Meaning: extremely upsetting)
    • “The judge delivered a grave warning to the defendants.” (Meaning: very serious advice)
    • “He faced a grave decision that would change his life.” (Meaning: a very important and difficult choice)
    • "The situation is grave – we need to act quickly."

2. A Deep Pit or Hole (Literal)

  • Meaning: A deep hole in the ground, often containing a body.
  • Synonyms: pit, hole, cavity.
  • Examples:
    • “The remains were buried in a grave in the old cemetery.”
    • “Archaeologists discovered a grave containing ancient artifacts.”
    • “A sudden landslide created a grave at the edge of the road.”

3. Feeling of Distress or Worry (Emotional)

  • Meaning: To feel or show deep anxiety, worry, or distress.
  • Synonyms: worry, fret, be concerned, be distressed.
  • Examples:
    • “She was grave with worry about her sick mother.” (Meaning: deeply worried)
    • “He grieved deeply at the loss of his friend.” (Note: "grieved" is a related verb meaning sorrowful)
    • “Don't be so grave; it's just a small problem.” (Meaning: don't be so worried)

4. (Archaic/Formal) Serious or Important (Less Common Now)

  • Meaning: Similar to “serious” but more formal and slightly old-fashioned. This usage is increasingly rare.
  • Example: "He spoke with a grave demeanor." (Meaning: with a serious manner)

5. Grave (as an adjective describing someone serious or thoughtful)

  • Meaning: Characterized by seriousness, thoughtfulness, or solemnity. This is often used to describe a person's appearance or behavior.
  • Examples:
    • "The grave young man contemplated the future." (Meaning: serious and thoughtful)
    • "She wore a grave expression on her face." (Meaning: a serious or worried look)

Important Notes & Distinctions:

  • "Serious" vs. "Grave": While often interchangeable, "grave" generally implies a deeper level of seriousness than "serious." Think of "grave" as carrying more weight or consequence.
  • "Grieve" vs. "Grave": “Grieve” is the verb (to feel sorrow). "Grave" is the adjective (serious or deep).

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

  • What context are you thinking of using the word "grave" in? (e.g., writing a story, having a conversation, answering a test question?)

Synonyms for the word grave

Practice with vocabulary grave

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The board acknowledged the __________ risks associated with the new investment strategy, requiring extensive mitigation plans.
  2. After the accident, the victim was in a __________ condition, prompting an urgent transfer to the intensive care unit.
  3. The company's decision to outsource its customer service department was met with __________ criticism from its long-standing clients.
  4. Developing a resilient supply chain has become __________ for businesses operating in today's volatile global market.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following words best describes a situation with very serious or potentially disastrous consequences? A. Minor B. Grave C. Frivolous D. Severe E. Negligible

  2. The CEO's announcement of the company's financial losses cast a __________ atmosphere over the entire meeting. A. Jovial B. Grave C. Lighthearted D. Solemn E. Enthusiastic

  3. The medical team determined that the patient's condition was __________, requiring immediate surgical intervention. A. Stable B. Grave C. Critical D. Minor E. Benign

  4. After weeks of intense negotiations, reaching a consensus on the new trade agreement became an __________ priority for all parties involved. A. Optional B. Auxiliary C. Indispensable D. Secondary E. Unnecessary F. Essential

  5. The scientist delivered a __________ lecture on the ethical implications of genetic engineering, prompting deep reflection among the audience. A. Superficial B. Profound C. Shallow D. Trivial E. Deep

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The manager was extremely worried about the potential negative effects of the proposed policy changes. Rewrite using "grave" or a related word form:

  2. Original: The seriousness of his responsibility as a team leader weighed heavily on him. Rewrite using "grave" or a related word form:

  3. Original: It is absolutely necessary that we address the security vulnerabilities immediately to protect our data. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word (do not use "grave"):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. grave
  2. grave
  3. intense
  4. crucial

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. B. Grave, D. Severe
  2. B. Grave, D. Solemn
  3. B. Grave, C. Critical
  4. C. Indispensable, F. Essential
  5. B. Profound, E. Deep

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The manager expressed grave concerns about the potential negative effects of the proposed policy changes.
  2. The gravity of his responsibility as a team leader weighed heavily on him.
  3. It is crucial that we address the security vulnerabilities immediately to protect our data.

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