Example sentence with word here?

Example: Look over there, the cat is right here

What is here? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of here

hereadverb

/hɪə/

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

There are two main pronunciations, and which one you use depends on where you're from and the context.

1. The Most Common American Pronunciation (often called "schwa here")

Sounds like: /hɪə/ (like "he-uh")
Breakdown:
- h: As in "hat" - a short, quick sound.
- i: As in "bit" - a very short, unstressed vowel sound. This is the "schwa" sound – the most common vowel sound in English and is often weak and reduced.
- ə: This is the "schwa" sound again – a very relaxed, neutral vowel sound. It's like you're gliding over the vowel. It’s often described as a neutral "uh" sound.
Emphasis: The emphasis is generally not on the "h" or "e." It’s more of a flowing sound.

2. The British Pronunciation (often called “hair here")

Sounds like: /hɛə/ (like "hair-uh")
Breakdown:
- h: As in "hat" – a short, quick sound.
- ɛ: This is the "short e" sound as in "bed" or "head." A distinct, clear vowel sound.
- ə: The schwa sound (like "he-uh")

Here's a quick way to tell the difference:

American: Think of saying "he-uh" very quickly and lightly.
British: Think of saying "hair-uh" with a more distinct “e” sound.

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

Google Translate: Type "here" into Google Translate and select the English language. Click the speaker icon to hear both pronunciations. (https://translate.google.com/)
Forvo: This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers from different regions. (https://forvo.com/word/here/)
YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce 'here' in English" to find many video tutorials.

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

Where are you from (generally)? (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.) Knowing your native language will help me give you the most relevant explanation.

Usage and examples with the word here in English

Let's break down how to use the word "here" effectively in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word! Here's a breakdown by category:

1. Indicating Location (Most Common Use)

Pointing to a place: This is the most frequent use.
- "Come here!" (Pointing)
- "I'm sitting here." (Indicating the spot you're in)
- "Put it here on the table."
Referring to the current location: It emphasizes that you’re in a particular spot right now.
- "I'm here now." (Meaning you’ve arrived)
- “I’m here to help.” (Meaning you’re present and available)
- "Welcome here!" (Expressing hospitality)

2. Introducing/Referring to Something

Introducing a topic or conversation:
- "Let’s talk here about the project." (Focusing on the project as the subject)
- " Here’s your book." (Introducing the book you’re handing over)
Introducing a piece of information:
- " Here's the news: we're closing." (Presenting the news)
- “ Here are the instructions.” (Presenting the instructions)

3. Expressing Emphasis/Proximity

Adding emphasis to a location:
- “Look here!” (Pointing with strong emphasis)
Indicating closeness or immediacy: (Often used informally)
- "Let's meet here tomorrow." (Suggesting a meeting near you)
- “ Here I am!” (A dramatic way of announcing your presence)

4. Figurative/Idiomatic Uses

"Here we go": A common expression used to anticipate something that's about to happen, often with mixed feelings (either excitement or apprehension). "Here we go, the traffic is starting!"
"Here's the thing...": Used to introduce a complex or important point. “Here’s the thing… we need to change our strategy.”
"Here's a thought..." (or "Here’s an idea...") Introduces a suggestion or proposal.

5. Grammatical Points

It’s a preposition: “Here” is a preposition, so it always takes a following object. You can't say "I am here." You must say "I am here."
Can be followed by various objects: "here," "here now," "here today," "here tomorrow".

Tips for Using "Here" Well:

Context is key: The meaning of "here" depends heavily on the context of the sentence.
Be clear about the location: If you’re using "here" to indicate a place, make sure it’s clear where that place is.
Don’t over-use it: Using “here” too frequently can make your speech sound repetitive.

Example Sentences Combining Different Uses:

"Come here! Let's talk about here – this meeting is right here in the conference room." (Location + topic + location)
" Here's the plan. Here we go..." (Introducing a plan + anticipatory expression)

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

What specifically are you struggling with when using the word "here"? (e.g., knowing when to use it, using it in a particular sentence structure?)

Synonyms for the word here

Idioms of the word here

by here

(Welsh English)here; to here

Come by here now!

(the) here and now

the present time; at the present time

our obsession with the here and now
We're going to settle this here and now.

here and there

in various places

Papers were scattered here and there on the floor.

here goes

(informal)used when you are telling people that you are just going to do something exciting, dangerous, etc.

‘Here goes,’ said Grace and took a deep breath.

here’s to somebody/something

used to wish somebody health or success, as you lift a glass and drink a toast

Here's to your future happiness!

here, there and everywhere

in many different places; all around

here we go

(informal)said when something is starting to happen

‘Here we go,’ thought Fred, ‘she's sure to say something.’

here we go again

(informal)said when something is starting to happen again, especially something bad

here you are

(informal)used when you are giving something to somebody

Here you are. This is what you were asking for.

here you go