What is heroic? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of heroic

heroicadjective

/həˈrəʊɪk//həˈrəʊɪk/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "heroic" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic approximations and tips:

Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˈhɪər.əʊ.ɪk/

Breakdown:

  • ˈhɪər: This part sounds like "heir" (as in royalty). The stress is on this syllable.
    • h - as in "hat"
    • i - as in "machine"
    • er - as in "her"
  • əʊ: This is a diphthong - a combination of two vowel sounds. It sounds like "oy" as in "boy."
    • ə - a short, unstressed "uh" sound (like the "a" in "about")
    • ʊ - as in "foot"
  • ɪk: This sounds like "ick" (as in "pick").
    • i - as in "machine"
    • k - as in "kite"

Putting it all together:

Say it slowly at first: "HEER-oh-ick"

Tips for clear pronunciation:

  • Stress: Make sure you emphasize the first syllable ("HEER").
  • "oy" sound: Practice saying "boy" and then blend it with "ick."
  • Don’t over-elongate: Don't hold each syllable out too long. It should flow smoothly.

Resources for Hearing it Pronounced:

  • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce heroic" on Google. You'll find audio clips and videos.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/heroic/ (This site lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word).

Do you want me to:

  • Break down any part of the pronunciation further?
  • Give you some example sentences using "heroic" so you can practice?

Usage and examples with the word heroic in English

Let's break down how to use the word "heroic" effectively in English. It's a strong word with a specific meaning, so understanding its nuances is key.

1. Core Meaning:

  • Essentially: "Heroic" describes something or someone that is characterized by bravery, selflessness, and courage, especially in the face of danger or adversity. It goes beyond simply being brave; it’s about doing something extraordinary and noble.

2. How to Use It – Different Contexts:

  • Describing People: This is the most common use.

    • “He was a heroic figure during the war.” (Suggests he displayed exceptional bravery and self-sacrifice.)
    • “The firefighter’s heroic actions saved countless lives.” (Highlights their courageous efforts.)
    • “Her heroic spirit inspired everyone around her.” (Focuses on her admirable character.)
    • “The old man’s heroic refusal to leave his home during the storm was remarkable.” (Showed courage and resistance.)

  • Describing Actions:

    • “The heroic rescue of the stranded climbers was widely reported.” (Emphasis on the bravery involved.)
    • “The band's heroic performance brought the house down.” (Figurative – meaning their performance was outstanding, impressive, and almost miraculously good.)
    • “Making that sacrifice was a truly heroic act.” (Highlights the selflessness of the decision.)

  • Describing Qualities (Less Common, but Possible): You can sometimes use it to describe a quality of a person, though it's often better to use adjectives like "courageous," "brave," or "noble" for this.

    • “He possessed a heroic stubbornness.” (Meaning he was incredibly determined and wouldn’t give up easily, even in difficult situations.) - This usage is slightly more formal and might sound a little strong.

3. Important Considerations & Nuances:

  • Degree of Courage: "Heroic" implies a high degree of bravery. It’s not just about being a little scared; it’s about facing significant danger or hardship willingly.

  • Selflessness: A key component of "heroic" is often a willingness to put oneself at risk for others. It’s not just about personal glory.

  • Context is Crucial: The word carries a lot of weight. Don't overuse it. It’s best reserved for situations where someone has genuinely displayed extraordinary bravery and selflessness.

  • Figurative Usage: As mentioned with “heroic performance,” “heroic” can be used figuratively to describe something impressive or remarkable. Be mindful of this.

4. Synonyms (Words you could use instead):

  • Brave
  • Courageous
  • Valiant
  • Noble
  • Resolute
  • Self-sacrificing
  • Distinguished
  • Remarkable

5. Examples Showing Variety

  • Positive: "The doctor’s heroic efforts saved the patient’s life."
  • Neutral: "The athlete’s heroic performance earned him a gold medal.” (Here, it’s more about outstanding skill than danger.)
  • More Reflective: “His heroic struggle against poverty inspired hope in his community.” (Focuses on the difficulty and the impact.)

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

  • What are you trying to write? (e.g., a story, an essay, a description?)
  • What is the specific situation you want to describe? (e.g., a historical event, a personal anecdote, a fictional character?)

Synonyms for the word heroic

Practice with vocabulary heroic

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Facing imminent collapse, the rescue workers made a truly _______ effort to extract survivors from the debris.
  2. The investigative team conducted a _______ analysis of the complex data to identify the root cause of the system failure.
  3. Despite facing overwhelming personal sacrifice, her _______ decision to expose the corruption brought about significant reform.
  4. For successful project completion, a _______ approach to risk management is essential to mitigate potential obstacles.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The actions of the security guard, who disarmed the attacker without regard for his own safety, were undeniably _______. A. prudent B. heroic C. selfish D. valorous

  2. What term best characterizes a person who inspires others through exceptional courage in adversity? A. visionary B. influential C. heroic D. ordinary

  3. The audit requires a _______ review of all financial records to ensure compliance. A. superficial B. cursory C. meticulous D. negligent

  4. To achieve the ambitious sales targets, the team must maintain a _______ and persistent effort throughout the quarter. A. erratic B. sporadic C. diligent D. lackadaisical

  5. Which attributes are often associated with an individual who performs a significant act of public service or rescue? A. Selfless B. Heroic C. Apathetic D. Fearful

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The small team fought with incredible courage to defend their position against a much larger force. (Rewrite using a word form of "heroic")

  2. She risked her life to pull the drowning child from the turbulent river. (Rewrite using a word form of "heroic")

  3. It requires great mental strength to overcome a significant personal setback. (Rewrite, but do not use "heroic" or its forms. Use a suitable replacement word.)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Facing imminent collapse, the rescue workers made a truly heroic effort to extract survivors from the debris.
  2. The investigative team conducted a meticulous analysis of the complex data to identify the root cause of the system failure.
  3. Despite facing overwhelming personal sacrifice, her heroic decision to expose the corruption brought about significant reform.
  4. For successful project completion, a proactive approach to risk management is essential to mitigate potential obstacles.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. B. heroic, D. valorous
  2. C. heroic
  3. C. meticulous
  4. C. diligent
  5. A. Selfless, B. Heroic

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The small team's heroic defense of their position against a much larger force was highly acclaimed.
  2. Her heroic act of pulling the drowning child from the turbulent river saved a life.
  3. Overcoming a significant personal setback demands resilience.

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