What is invite? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of invite

inviteverb

/ɪnˈvʌɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of invite

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "invite" in English. Here's a breakdown, with a few options depending on regional accents:

General American Pronunciation (most common):

  • ih-VINEET
    • ih: Like the "i" in "bit" or "sit."
    • VINEET: This is the tricky part. The "V" is generally pronounced as a "v" sound, not a "w" sound. The "ee" is long, like in "see." The "t" at the end is a very light, quick "t" sound – almost silent.

British Pronunciation:

  • in-VITE
    • in: Like the "in" in "in"
    • VITE: Similar to the American pronunciation, "V" as a "v", "ee" as in "see" and a light "t" sound.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable: "ih"
  • "V" Sound: Make sure you pronounce the "V" as a "v" - don't let it become a "w".
  • Light "t": Don't overemphasize the final "t." It’s a very quick sound.

Resources for Hearing It:

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Usage and examples with the word invite in English

Let's break down how to use the word "invite" in English. It's a very common and versatile word!

1. Basic Meaning: To ask someone to come somewhere or do something.

  • Simple invitation: "I invite you to my party." (You're asking someone to attend a party.)
  • Formal invitation: "The university invites all students to the graduation ceremony." (An institution is extending an invitation.)
  • Informal invitation: "Want to invite Sarah over for dinner?" (A casual suggestion to include someone.)

2. Different Forms & Usage:

  • Invite + someone: This is the most common way to use it.
    • "I invited my friend to the concert."
    • "She invited her colleagues to lunch."
  • Invite + something: You can invite someone to do something.
    • "He invited me to dance."
    • "They invited us to a BBQ."
  • Invite + a meeting/discussion: "We need to invite the team to a meeting to discuss the project."
  • To be invited: This describes the action received – when someone asks you to do something.
    • "I was invited to the wedding."
    • "She was invited to speak at the conference."

3. Phrases with "Invite":

  • Extend an invitation: (Often used in formal situations) "The company extended an invitation to the CEO to visit Japan."
  • Put out an invitation: (Similar to “extend”) "They put out an invitation for volunteers to help with the event."
  • Invite someone to (something): This is very common and specifies what you're inviting them to.
    • "I invited her to the museum."
    • "He invited me to the game."
  • Invite someone along: (Suggesting inclusion) "Let's invite John along; he'd love to come."

4. Levels of Formality:

  • Formal: "We hereby invite you..." (Often used in official letters or announcements.)
  • Semi-formal: “I would like to invite you…”
  • Informal: "Let’s invite..." "Want to invite..."

5. Examples in Context:

  • “The restaurant invites reservations.” (invites = provides the option)
  • “My parents invited us to spend Christmas with them.” (invited = asked us to come)
  • "Could you invite your brother to the party?" (invite= ask him to come)
  • "I'm inviting you to my house for a movie night." (inviting = asking you to come)

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Synonyms for the word invite

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