What is introduce? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of introduce

introduceverb

/ˌɪntrəˈdjuːs/
Definition & pronunciation of introduce

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "introduce" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown, with a few different ways to explain it:

1. The Most Common & Recommended Pronunciation (General American):

  • ih-TROOD-yuhs

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • ih - like the "i" in "bit"
  • TROOD - This is the key! The "t" is silent. The "r" is a strong rolled "r" (like in "red"). The "oo" sound is like the "oo" in "moon" or "food."
  • yuhs - This is like the "s" in "bus." It’s a very short, quick "uh" sound.

2. A Slightly More Detailed Breakdown (For Understanding the Sounds):

  • ih – as in "hit"
  • t – silent
  • r – a strong, rolled 'r' (practice making that sound – say "red" quickly)
  • oo – as in "moon"
  • d – as in "dog"
  • y – as in “yes” (a dipthong – the sound blends from “i” to “y”)
  • uh – a short, unstressed "uh" sound (like the "a" in "about")
  • s – as in "sun"

3. Resources to Listen and Practice:

Tips for Mastering It:

  • Focus on the Rolled "R": This is often the biggest challenge for non-native speakers. Practice saying words with rolled "r"s like "red," "right," and "run."
  • Silent "T": Really emphasize that the "t" in "introduce" is completely silent.
  • Practice Slowly: Don't rush. Break the word down into syllables.
  • Record Yourself: Listen back to your pronunciation and compare it to the examples you hear.

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

  • Where are you from? (e.g., UK, Australia, etc.) – Pronunciation can vary slightly between English-speaking regions.

Usage and examples with the word introduce in English

Let's break down how to use the word "introduce" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and ways to use it. Here's a detailed explanation, broken down into categories:

1. To Make Someone Familiar With Something (Most Common)

  • Meaning: To make someone aware of, acquainted with, or familiar with something new.
  • Structure: Introduce + Object + (to/to someone)
  • Examples:
    • "I want to introduce you to my friend, Sarah." (Making someone meet someone else)
    • "The teacher introduced the new unit on Shakespeare." (Making students aware of a topic)
    • "Let me introduce you to the concept of recursion." (Making someone understand a new idea)
    • "He introduced me to the best Italian restaurant in town." (Making someone aware of a place)

2. To Present Someone (Formal)

  • Meaning: To formally present someone to another person, often in a social or professional setting. This is a more polite and formal way than just "introducing."
  • Structure: Introduce + Person + to + Person
  • Examples:
    • "It’s a pleasure to introduce Mr. Jones to the team." (Formal introduction)
    • "The CEO introduced the new marketing director to the board." (Official presentation)

3. To Start Something (Beginning a Process)

  • Meaning: To begin something or begin to do something.
  • Structure: Introduce + Gerund (-ing form of a verb)
  • Examples:
    • “Let’s introduce a new policy.” (Start a new policy)
    • “The company is introducing a new product next month.” (Begin the launch of a product)
    • "I'll introduce you to the basics of coding." (Start teaching the basics)

4. To Add Something New (Adding an Element)

  • Meaning: To add something new to a group or context.
  • Structure: Introduce + Object + into/to + Group/Context
  • Examples:
    • "We need to introduce some fresh ideas into the project." (Add new ideas)
    • “The new regulations were introduced into the law.” (Adding new rules)
    • “She introduced a new element of surprise to the performance.” (Adding something unexpected)

5. (Less Common) To Cause Someone to Become Aware (Often Negative)

  • Meaning: To expose someone to a difficult or unpleasant truth. This usage is less frequent and often carries a slightly negative connotation.
  • Structure: Introduce + Someone + to + Something Difficult/Unpleasant
  • Examples:
    • "He introduced her to the harsh realities of the business world." (Exposed her to difficulties)
    • "The incident introduced him to the dangers of reckless behavior." (Made him aware of danger)

Key Points & Tips:

  • "To" vs. No "To": Notice how “to” is used when you're introducing someone to someone else (e.g., "introduce you to Sarah"). It’s often omitted when you’re introducing a concept, idea, or topic (e.g., "introduce the concept of recursion").
  • Verb After "Introduce": The verb following "introduce" is usually a gerund (a verb ending in -ing) when it means to begin or start something.
  • Formal vs. Informal: "Introduce" is generally more formal than words like "meet" or "tell."

Let’s test your understanding! Can you use “introduce” in a sentence? (I’ll give you a scenario, and you tell me how to phrase it using "introduce".) For example, “I want to show my sister a beautiful painting…”


Comment ()