What is item? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of item

itemnoun

/ˈʌɪtɪm/
Definition & pronunciation of item

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "item" in English. It's a surprisingly tricky word for many learners!

Here's the breakdown:

1. The Basic Sound:

  • "I" – Pronounced like the "i" in "bit" (short i sound).

  • "tem" – This is where it gets tricky. It’s pronounced like "tēm". Let's break that down further:

    • "te" – Pronounced like the "te" in "telephone" or "text."
    • "m" – Pronounced like the "m" in "mom."
    • The "-em" sound: This is a diphthong – a blend of two vowel sounds. It’s a short "e" sound, but it’s a bit more drawn out and slightly "e-uh" like you’re gliding from one vowel to the other. It’s not like the “e” in “bed.”

2. Putting it Together:

So, "item" is pronounced approximately: "ih-tēm"

3. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "i-tem": This is the most common error. The "e" is not short and closed like in "bed".
  • Don't over-emphasize the "em": It should be a smooth glide, not a very distinct syllable.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to truly get the pronunciation right is to hear it. Here are a few resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "item" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/item/) – This website has audio pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce item" and you’ll find many videos.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more examples of words with similar vowel combinations?

Usage and examples with the word item in English

Let's break down how to use the word "item" in English. It's a versatile word, but it’s often used in specific ways. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. As a General Countable Noun:

  • Meaning: This is the most common use. “Item” refers to a single thing, part of a collection, or a component of something. It’s a more formal or neutral alternative to “thing” or “object.”
  • Examples:
    • “Please list all the items on your shopping list.” (Referring to individual things you need to buy)
    • “The museum has a collection of ancient artifacts – each item tells a story.” (Referring to distinct pieces of history)
    • “Can you hand me another item from the box?” (A single object)
    • “This report details each item of equipment required for the project.” (Specific pieces of equipment)

2. In Lists and Inventory:

  • Meaning: Often used when presenting a list of things, often in a business or formal context.
  • Examples:
    • “The inventory included 100 items of clothing.”
    • “Here’s a list of items to be delivered: pens, paper, and staplers.”
    • “The company’s sales report showed a significant increase in item sales.” (Referring to the quantity of sales)

3. As Part of Phrases (Very Common):

  • “Item number…”: This is extremely common, especially in inventories, shipping documents, and accounting.
    • “Item number 12345 is a blue sweater.”
  • “Item list…”: Used to refer to a list of items.
    • “Check the item list before placing your order.”
  • “Itemized bill…”: A bill broken down into individual charges.
    • "Please pay the itemized bill promptly.”
  • “Item-by-item…”: Meaning “one item at a time.”
    • “We’ll review the documents item-by-item.”

4. In Legal and Technical Contexts:

  • Meaning: In these fields, "item" can refer to a specific component or clause in a document.
  • Examples:
    • “The contract includes an item regarding intellectual property rights.”
    • “This legal item requires careful consideration.”

5. Less Common Uses:

  • "Itemize" (verb): To list out individually or break down into items. ("Please itemize your expenses.") This is often used interchangeably with “break down.”

Key Differences and When to Use "Item" vs. "Thing" or "Object":

  • “Item” is generally more formal and precise than “thing” or “object.” It suggests a specific, identifiable part or element.
  • “Thing” is more general and can refer to almost anything.
  • “Object” often implies a physical object.

Here's a table summarizing the uses:

Usage Meaning Example
General Countable Noun A single thing or part of a collection “The item on the table is a book.”
Lists/Inventory A single element in a list “The list of items includes shoes.”
Phrases Part of specific phrases “Item number 1,” “item-by-item”
Legal/Technical A component or clause “The contract’s item regarding payment”

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

  • What kind of writing are you doing? (e.g., business reports, creative writing, general conversation?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you are trying to use the word “item” in?

Synonyms for the word item

Idioms of the word item

be an item
(informal)to be involved in a romantic or sexual relationship
  • Are they an item?

Comment ()