What is marker? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of marker

markernoun

/ˈmɑːkə/
Definition & pronunciation of marker

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "marker." It can be a tricky one for non-native speakers! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈmɑːk.ər/ (American English)
    • ˈmɑːk: This part sounds like "mack" – as in, the dog breed. The 'a' is a broad, open "ah" sound, almost like saying "father."
    • ər: This is the schwa sound, a very short, unstressed vowel. It’s like the "uh" in "about."

Here’s a phonetic transcription (a more precise way to write the sound):

  • [ˈmɑːk.ər]

Let's break it down with some tips:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable ("mack").
  • Schwa: The "er" sound at the end is a schwa, meaning it's very light and doesn't have a strong vowel sound. Don't try to over-emphasize it.
  • Don't say "mark-er": Many people incorrectly pronounce it “mark-er,” which isn’t quite right.

Resources to hear it:

Would you like me to:

  • Break down the pronunciation further?
  • Give you examples of how the word is used in a sentence?

Usage and examples with the word marker in English

Let's break down how to use the word "marker" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here’s a detailed explanation, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Physical Marker (Most Common Usage)

  • Definition: A small object, usually a piece of colored material, used to indicate something on a surface.
  • Examples:
    • "I used a marker to draw a line on the map." (Indicates a location)
    • "She used a bright pink marker to highlight the important points in the text." (Emphasizes key information)
    • “The construction crew put up temporary markers to show the boundaries of the new road.” (Indicates limits)
    • "He used a marker to draw a grid on the paper.” (Creates a pattern or structure)

2. As a Signpost/Indicator (Similar to Physical Marker)

  • Definition: Something that signals where something is or what to do. It's less about a physical object and more about conveying information.
  • Examples:
    • "The store put up a marker on the map showing the location of the sale." (Shows the location)
    • "The marker on the trail indicated a steep climb ahead." (Warns of a challenge)
    • "He used his pen as a marker to track his progress on the project." (Indicates advancement)

3. In Genetics (Biological)

  • Definition: A DNA sequence that serves as a reference point for identifying other regions of the genome. Think of it like a landmark.
  • Examples:
    • "Scientists used a specific marker to identify the gene responsible for the disease." (Identifies a related gene)
    • “Genetic markers are used in animal breeding to select for desirable traits.” (Helps select for specific characteristics)

4. In Linguistics/Writing (Less Common)

  • Definition: A word or phrase that helps to identify a grammatical category or function.
  • Examples:
    • “The word ‘is’ can act as a marker for the present tense.” (Signals tense)
    • "The verb 'to be' is a common marker of agreement in sentences.” (Shows agreement between subjects and verbs)

5. As a "Marker" (Figurative - Showing Progress or Importance)

  • Definition: Something that signifies a point of significant change or progress, or highlights something important.
  • Examples:
    • "The new law is a marker of the government’s commitment to environmental protection." (Shows a change in policy)
    • “The project’s success was a marker in his career.” (Signifies a turning point)

6. In Mathematics

  • Definition: A point on a graph or curve that is used to determine its shape or characteristics.
  • Example: “The vertex of the parabola is the marker that defines its peak.”

Tips for Using "Marker" Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "marker" depends heavily on the surrounding words and the situation.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms like "sign," "indicator," "point," or "label" if "marker" feels awkward.
  • Be Specific: If possible, clarify what is being marked.

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

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., creative writing, scientific writing, general conversation)
  • Could you give me an example sentence where you've used or want to use the word "marker"?

Synonyms for the word marker

Idioms of the word marker

lay/put/set down a marker (for something)
to do something that sets a standard for your competitors or shows what you intend to do or achieve in the future
  • The reigning champions laid down a marker with a 36–0 defeat of their opponents.
  • The prime minister has put down a marker for a Washington visit in May.

Practice with vocabulary marker

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project manager used a red ________ to highlight the critical deadlines on the whiteboard.
  2. Achieving this significant milestone serves as a clear ________ of the team's progress and dedication.
  3. Before submitting the report, please ensure all figures are meticulously checked and the data is completely ________.
  4. One key ________ of success in this competitive industry is the ability to adapt quickly to new technologies.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following can be used to permanently write on a non-porous surface, such as glass or plastic? a) Pencil b) Permanent marker c) Chalk d) Whiteboard marker

  2. What could indicate a significant change or turning point in a historical period or a scientific study? a) A trivial detail b) A random occurrence c) A key marker d) A statistical anomaly

  3. The consultant suggested using a distinct visual element to define the start and end points of each section in the presentation. Which of these words fits that description? a) Ornament b) Boundary line c) Placeholder d) Section marker

  4. Before implementing the new software, the IT department set a clear ________ for user proficiency, requiring all staff to complete the training modules. a) threshold b) distraction c) detour d) digression

  5. When reviewing the quarterly financial statements, it's crucial to identify the main ________ of revenue and expenditure. a) sources b) detours c) obstacles d) diversions

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The significant increase in customer satisfaction is a strong indication of our improved service quality. Rewrite using "marker":

  2. Original: The scientists placed flags to show the locations where they had collected samples. Rewrite using "marker" or a related word form:

  3. Original: The most important sign that a company is financially healthy is its consistent profit growth. Rewrite without using "marker", but using a suitable replacement word:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project manager used a red marker to highlight the critical deadlines on the whiteboard.
  2. Achieving this significant milestone serves as a clear marker of the team's progress and dedication.
  3. Before submitting the report, please ensure all figures are meticulously checked and the data is completely accurate.
  4. One key indicator of success in this competitive industry is the ability to adapt quickly to new technologies.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Permanent marker
  2. c) A key marker
  3. b) Boundary line, d) Section marker
  4. a) threshold
  5. a) sources

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The significant increase in customer satisfaction is a strong marker of our improved service quality.
  2. The scientists placed markers to show the locations where they had collected samples.
  3. The most important benchmark that a company is financially healthy is its consistent profit growth.

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