What is mask? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of mask

masknoun

/mɑːsk/
Definition & pronunciation of mask

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "mask" in English. There are two common pronunciations, and it depends on where you are in the US and Canada:

1. American English (Most Common):

  • Pronunciation: /ˈmæsk/ (rhymes with "task")
  • Breakdown:
    • "Ma" - Pronounce this like the word "ma" (as in mother).
    • "sk" - This is a single sound, like the "sk" in "desk." It's not a separate "s" and "k" sound.

2. Canadian English:

  • Pronunciation: /mɑːsk/ (rhymes with "hawk")
  • Breakdown:
    • "Ma" - Pronounced as in American English.
    • "ask" - Pronounce this like the word "ask". (The 'a' sound is a bit broader and longer than in the American pronunciation).

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

  • Google Translate: Type "mask" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon. (This will usually give you the American pronunciation).
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/mask/ - This website offers pronunciations from native speakers around the world. You’ll hear both the American and Canadian versions here.
  • YouTube: Search "how to pronounce mask" on YouTube - you’ll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Where are you located (approximately)? (e.g., United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, etc.)

Usage and examples with the word mask in English

Let's break down how to use the word "mask" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with many different meanings! Here's a categorized breakdown with examples:

1. As a Covering (Literal Meaning)

  • Definition: To cover or conceal something with a material, typically cloth.
  • Examples:
    • "She wore a mask to hide her identity."
    • "The archaeologist carefully cleaned the ancient mask."
    • "He put a mask over his face to protect himself from the dust."

2. As a Concealment (Figurative - Emotions, Feelings)

  • Definition: To hide one’s true feelings, emotions, or intentions. To present a false or deceptive appearance.
  • Examples:
    • "He wore a mask of happiness, despite being deeply saddened." (He appeared happy, but didn't feel happy.)
    • "She was putting on a mask for the party, trying to be more outgoing than she really was."
    • "Don't mask your feelings; be honest with me." (Don't hide them.)
    • "The politician used a mask of sincerity to win over voters." (He was being insincere.)

3. In Theater/Performance

  • Definition: A piece of material worn over the face to transform an actor into a different character.
  • Examples:
    • "The actor donned a Venetian mask for the role."
    • “The stage crew worked diligently to create realistic masks for the play.”

4. In Science/Medicine

  • Definition: To protect a wound or injury from infection.
  • Examples:
    • "The doctor applied a mask to the surgical site."
    • “A breathing mask was used to administer the anesthetic.”
  • Definition: (Less common) To block or reduce the visibility of a signal or effect.
    • "The sensor masked the interference from the background noise."

5. As a Metaphor for Something That Distracts

  • Definition: Something that obscures or hides the truth, often something negative.
  • Examples:
    • “The company’s glossy advertising campaign was merely a mask for its declining profits." (It hid the bad news)
    • "His charm was just a mask for his insecurity." (He didn’t truly feel confident)

6. “Mask Up” (Recent Usage - COVID-19)

  • Definition: To wear a face mask, typically for protection against a virus. (This is a very common usage currently.)
  • Example: “Please mask up when you’re in public spaces.”

Key Phrases & Variations:

  • Put on a mask: To pretend or conceal. (e.g., “Don’t put on a mask; be yourself.”)
  • Take off a mask: To reveal the truth or genuine feelings. (e.g., “It’s time to take off the mask and be honest.”)
  • Masking agent: Something used to conceal or cover something else.

Resources to Help You Learn More:

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  • In what context are you trying to use the word “mask”? (e.g., are you writing a story, having a conversation, learning for a test?)

Synonyms for the word mask

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