What is impatient? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of impatient

impatientadjective

/ɪmˈpeɪʃnt/
Definition & pronunciation of impatient

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "impatient." It can be tricky for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word is generally divided into three syllables: im - pay - tient

2. Pronunciation Guide:

  • im: Pronounced like "im" as in "imp" or "him." (əm)
  • pay: Pronounced like "pay" as in "paycheck." (pay)
  • tient: This is the trickiest part! It's pronounced like “shent” (ʃənt). Think of the "sh" sound, followed by a very short, unstressed "eh" sound. It's almost like you're saying "she-nt."

3. Putting it Together:

So, the whole word is pronounced: im PAY-shənt

(ˈɪm peɪ - ʃənt)

Tips & Considerations:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable: “pay.”
  • Short "e" sound: Don't over-emphasize the "eh" sound in "tient." It should be very quick and light.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a more detailed breakdown of the sounds involved?

Usage and examples with the word impatient in English

Let's break down how to use the word "impatient" in English. It's a common word, but understanding its nuances will help you use it effectively.

1. Meaning:

"Impatient" means not wanting to wait or feeling frustrated because something is taking too long. It describes a feeling of restlessness, annoyance, and a desire for something to happen quickly.

2. Parts of Speech:

  • Adjective: This is the most common usage. It describes a person.

    • Example: "She was impatient to start the movie."
    • Example: "He’s a very impatient driver."

  • Adverb: Less common, but it modifies a verb, describing how someone acts.

    • Example: "He answered the phone impatiently." (Meaning he answered with annoyance.)

3. How to Use it – Examples and Context:

  • Describing a Person's Feelings:

    • “I’m so impatient waiting for the results of the test.” (Expressing your feeling.)
    • “My child is incredibly impatient when he wants a treat.” (Describing their behavior.)
    • “The impatient customer complained about the long wait.” (Describing someone else's demeanor.)

  • Describing Behavior:

    • “He tapped his foot impatiently while she was talking.” (Showing how they are behaving.)
    • "Don't be so impatient; good things take time." (Pointing out the impatient behavior.)

  • Figuratively (Less Common): Sometimes it's used to describe a situation or process:

    • "The project’s impatient pace is starting to worry the team.” (Meaning the project is moving too quickly and potentially unsustainably)

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Restless
  • Eager
  • Anxious
  • Frustrated
  • Impatient
  • Hurried
  • Quick

5. Phrases and Idioms:

  • “Can’t stand waiting”: A common way to express impatience. “I can’t stand waiting for the bus!”
  • “In a hurry”: Often related to impatience.
  • “Short-tempered”: Impatient people can often be short-tempered.

6. Important Note on Tone:

Using "impatient" can sometimes sound a little critical. Be mindful of how you’re using the word. Focusing on your feelings (e.g., “I'm feeling impatient”) is often gentler than describing someone else as “impatient.”

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

  • What specifically are you trying to do with the word "impatient"? (e.g., write a story, have a conversation, describe a feeling?)

Synonyms for the word impatient

Practice with vocabulary impatient

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project manager grew increasingly _____________ with the slow progress, urging the team to accelerate their efforts.
  2. Despite repeated assurances, the customer remained _____________, constantly checking the delivery status online.
  3. She felt a sense of _____________ anticipation before the conference, keen to network with industry leaders.
  4. The team became visibly _____________ when the technical issues delayed the presentation by over an hour.

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

  1. After waiting for thirty minutes past the scheduled meeting time, he started to feel quite _____________. a. calm b. composed c. impatient d. patient
  2. The investors were _____________ for the quarterly financial results to be published, hoping for positive news. a. eager b. indifferent c. impatient d. apathetic
  3. Her demeanor suggested she was becoming rather _____________ with the endless bureaucratic procedures. a. tolerant b. forbearing c. impatient d. lenient
  4. Before his first major public speaking engagement, he felt incredibly _____________, despite extensive preparation. a. tranquil b. anxious c. serene d. nonchalant
  5. To effectively lead a new initiative, one must be _____________ and willing to take the first steps. a. passive b. proactive c. hesitant d. resistant

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Her inability to wait for the final decision regarding the promotion was quite evident. (Rewrite using a form of "impatient")

  2. He rushed through the initial stages of the project because he wanted to see quick results without delay. (Rewrite using a form of "impatient")

  3. The entire department was extremely keen for the launch of the new software update. (Rewrite, but do not use "impatient" or its related forms)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. impatient
  2. impatient
  3. eager
  4. frustrated

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c. impatient
  2. a. eager, c. impatient
  3. c. impatient
  4. b. anxious
  5. b. proactive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She was quite impatient for the final decision regarding the promotion.
  2. He impatiently rushed through the initial stages of the project, wanting to see quick results.
  3. The entire department was eagerly anticipating the launch of the new software update.

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