What is interview? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of interview

interviewnoun/verb

/ˈɪntəvjuː/
Definition & pronunciation of interview

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "interview." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • ih-NTER-view

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ih - Like the "i" in "bit" or "sit" (short 'i' sound)
  • NTER - This is the challenging part! It's a diphthong, meaning it's a combination of two vowel sounds blended together. Think of it like this:
    • Start with a short "uh" sound (like in "but").
    • Then slide your tongue up and back slightly, as if saying "ee" (like in "see"). You don't fully say "ee," it’s a quick glide.
  • view - Pronounced like the word "view" (as in a scenic view).

Here's a helpful breakdown with audio (recommended):

Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Saying "inter-view" (with a slight pause). The "v" sound is separate and shouldn’t have a pause.
  • Overemphasizing the "ee" sound in the "NTER" part. It's a subtle glide, not a full vowel.
  • Pronouncing it like "in-ter-view." This is a common mistake; the first syllable is slightly different.

To practice: Say it slowly at first, focusing on each syllable. Then, try repeating it several times faster. Listen to the audio examples and mimic the sounds.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more tips on the "NTER" sound?

Usage and examples with the word interview in English

Let's break down how to use the word "interview" in English. It's a really common word with a few different nuances.

1. As a Noun (the event itself):

  • Definition: An interview is a conversation between two or more people, typically conducted for the purpose of gathering information or assessing someone’s suitability for something.
  • Examples:
    • "I have a job interview next week." (Referring to the meeting itself)
    • "She gave an interview to the newspaper." (Referring to the session where she spoke to the reporter)
    • "He’s preparing for an interview for a promotion." (Referring to the process of getting ready)
    • “She conducted an interview with the author.” (The person doing the talking)

2. As a Verb (the act of talking):

  • Definition: To interview someone means to ask them questions in order to get information, evaluate them, or learn about them.
  • Examples:
    • “The journalist will interview the president.” (The journalist will ask the questions)
    • “I need to interview candidates for the position.” (Someone needs to ask the questions)
    • “The psychologist interviewed her to understand her feelings.” (The psychologist conducted the interview)

3. Types of Interviews:

"Interview" can also be used to describe different kinds of conversations. Here are some common ones:

  • Job Interview: A conversation to assess a candidate's qualifications for a job. (Most people think of this first!)
  • Press Interview: An interview with a journalist or media outlet.
  • Formal Interview: A structured interview with a set of questions.
  • Informal Interview: A more casual conversation, often used for networking or advice.
  • Psychological Interview: An interview conducted by a psychologist or therapist.
  • Background Interview: An initial interview to gather basic information.

4. Phrases Using "Interview":

  • Conduct an interview: To lead or perform an interview.
  • Give an interview: To participate in an interview.
  • Prepare for an interview: To get ready for an interview.
  • Ace the interview: To do very well in an interview.
  • Follow-up interview: A second interview after the first.
  • Video interview: An interview conducted remotely using video conferencing.

Tips for Using "Interview" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The surrounding words will often make it clear whether you're talking about the event, the action, or a type of interview.
  • Be specific: If you’re talking about a job interview, you can say “a job screening” or “a panel interview” for more specific details.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you some example sentences using "interview" in different contexts?
  • Explain how to prepare for a job interview?
  • Help you understand the difference between a formal and informal interview?

Synonyms for the word interview

Practice with vocabulary interview

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The HR department scheduled a second-round ______ with the most promising candidates.
  2. As a journalist, my job often involves asking challenging questions to ______ public figures.
  3. For the senior management role, candidates are expected to attend a formal ______ with the CEO next week.
  4. Many companies use an initial phone screen to narrow down the pool of ______ before inviting them for an in-person discussion.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following terms describes a formal discussion where questions are asked to assess a candidate's qualifications for a role? a) Consultation b) Interview c) Evaluation d) Deliberation

  2. To effectively ______ a subject for a research project, one must prepare thoughtful questions and actively listen to their responses. a) interrogate b) interview c) quiz d) cross-examine

  3. It is polite to send a thank-you note or email after attending a job ______ to reaffirm your interest. a) appointment b) meeting c) interview d) discussion

  4. Before applying for a position, candidates often need to tailor their ______ to highlight relevant skills and experience. a) curriculum vitae b) abstract c) manifesto d) proposal

  5. During the quarterly ______ with their manager, employees usually discuss their performance and set new goals. a) seminar b) appraisal c) colloquium d) discourse

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Rewrite the sentence, starting with "The hiring committee..." Original: The company held a rigorous process to select the best applicant, which included several discussions with potential employees.

  2. Rewrite the sentence, replacing the underlined phrase with "interview" or a related form. Original: The candidate prepared thoroughly for the face-to-face evaluation for the position.

  3. Rewrite the sentence, replacing the underlined word with a suitable synonym that is NOT "interview". Original: Before signing the contract, a final discussion will take place between the legal teams.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. interview
  2. interview
  3. meeting
  4. applicants

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Interview, c) Evaluation
  2. b) interview
  3. c) interview
  4. a) curriculum vitae
  5. b) appraisal

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The hiring committee interviewed potential employees as part of a rigorous selection process.
  2. The candidate prepared thoroughly for the job interview for the position.
  3. Before signing the contract, a final negotiation will take place between the legal teams.

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