What is impel? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of impel

impelverb

/ɪmˈpel//ɪmˈpel/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "impel" in English. It's a tricky one because it's a Latinate word and doesn't follow typical English pronunciation rules. Here's a breakdown:

1. Phonetic Transcription (Closest to how it should be said):

  • /ɪmˈpel/ (This is using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA)

Let's break that down:

  • ɪ - This is a short "i" sound, like in "bit" or "sit."
  • m - As in "mom."
  • ˈpel - This is the stressed syllable.
    • p - As in "pen."
    • el - A short "e" sound, like in "bed."

2. How to Say It (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with the "im" sound: Say "im" smoothly as in "him."
  2. Add the "pel" at the end: Now, quickly add the "pel" sound. It's crucial to make the "p" distinct and the "el" quick and light. Don't let the "el" sound blend too much with the "m."

3. Common Mispronunciations & How to Avoid Them:

  • Don't say "umpel": Many people incorrectly pronounce it like "umpel." The "u" is not there.
  • Don’t make the "pel" sound too drawn out: Keep it relatively short and crisp.
  • Stress the second syllable: The emphasis needs to be on "pel."

4. Helpful Tips:

In short: “Im-pel” – Short ‘i’ sound, followed by ‘m,’ then a quick ‘p’ followed by ‘el’ with emphasis on the ‘pel’ syllable.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a few more example sentences using the word "impel"?

Usage and examples with the word impel in English

Let's break down how to use the word "impel." It's a powerful word with a slightly formal feel. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Core Meaning:

  • At its most basic, "impel" means to drive or compel someone to do something. It suggests a strong, often irresistible, force pushing someone forward. It's stronger than "encourage" or "motivate."

2. Parts of a Sentence & Examples:

  • As a Verb (to drive):

    • "The beautiful scenery impelled her to hike further into the mountains." (The scenery urged her on.)
    • "His grief impelled him to write a mournful poem." (His grief pushed him to write.)
    • "The urgency of the situation impelled him to act quickly." (The situation demanded quick action.)
    • "A sense of duty impelled her to volunteer at the homeless shelter." (Duty motivated her.)

  • With "to" (to cause to do):

    • “The evidence impels the jury to a guilty verdict.” (The evidence forces the jury to find guilt.)
    • “His passion impels him to pursue a career in music.” (His passion drives him towards music.)

3. More Nuanced Uses & Connotations:

  • Internal Motivation: "Impel" often refers to internal feelings or instincts rather than external pressures. This adds a layer of depth.

    • “A deep-seated desire to succeed impels her every decision.”

  • Duty or Morality: It’s frequently associated with a sense of moral obligation or a feeling of what should be done.

    • “His conscience impelled him to confess his mistake.”

  • Historical/Formal Context: You're more likely to encounter "impel" in literature, historical writing, or formal speeches. It sounds a bit old-fashioned in everyday conversation.

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Drive
  • Compel
  • Force
  • Urge
  • Motivate
  • Inspire
  • Steer
  • Encourage

5. Things to Watch Out For:

  • Formal Tone: Be mindful of the context. “Impel” can sound overly dramatic or verbose in casual conversation.

  • Don't Overuse: It’s a relatively rare word. Using it too frequently can make your writing feel stilted.

Example Combining Several Points:

"The desperate need to provide for her children impelled her to work two jobs, sacrificing her own time and well-being." (This demonstrates internal motivation, a strong feeling, and a driving force.)

Resources for Further Study:

To help me tailor this explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Where did you encounter the word "impel"? (e.g., a book, article, conversation?)
  • What are you trying to use it for? (e.g., writing a story, giving a presentation, improving your vocabulary?)

Synonyms for the word impel

Practice with vocabulary impel

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. A sense of responsibility may ______ an individual to take on extra duties, even without direct compensation.
  2. The rapid advancements in technology continue to ______ significant changes in the global job market.
  3. Despite the challenges, her inherent optimism always helps her to ______ a positive outlook.
  4. To ensure clarity, the project manager decided to ______ the key objectives in the introductory slide.

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

  1. Which factors could impel a nation to invest heavily in renewable energy sources? a) Rising fossil fuel prices b) International climate agreements c) Public demand for environmental protection d) Technological breakthroughs in green energy

  2. To impel action means to: a) halt progress b) provide a strong push towards c) passively observe d) strongly influence or force

  3. The urgency of the situation began to impel the negotiating parties towards a swift resolution. Which of the following words is a suitable synonym for impel in this sentence? a) restrain b) propel c) dissuade d) oblige

  4. Which of these actions would ameliorate a difficult situation? a) Intensifying existing problems b) Taking steps to improve conditions c) Ignoring the issues completely d) Making the situation worse

  5. The new regulations will curtail unnecessary spending within the department. What does curtail mean? a) expand b) reduce c) initiate d) promote

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The unexpected market shift forced the company to reconsider its long-term strategy. (Rewrite using "impel")

  2. Her deep commitment to social equality was the primary motivator for her advocacy work. (Rewrite using a form of "impel")

  3. It is crucial to present the research results in a concise manner for the board members. (Rewrite without "impel", using a suitable replacement word)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. impel
  2. impel
  3. maintain
  4. outline

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Rising fossil fuel prices, b) International climate agreements, c) Public demand for environmental protection, d) Technological breakthroughs in green energy
  2. b) provide a strong push towards, d) strongly influence or force
  3. b) propel, d) oblige
  4. b) Taking steps to improve conditions
  5. b) reduce

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The unexpected market shift impelled the company to reconsider its long-term strategy.
  2. Her deep commitment to social equality impelled her to pursue advocacy work.
  3. It is crucial to articulate the research results concisely for the board members.

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