What is network? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of network

networknoun

/ˈnɛtwəːk/
Definition & pronunciation of network

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "network" in English. There are a couple of common pronunciations, and they're both generally accepted!

1. The Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • ˈnetˌwɜːrk (This is the one you'll hear most often in the US)
    • ˈnet: Sounds like "net" (as in a fishing net). It's a stressed syllable.
    • ˌwɜːrk: Sounds like "work". The "w" is silent, and "work" is a secondary, unstressed syllable. The "r" is lightly pronounced, almost like a "d" sound.

2. The British English Pronunciation:

  • ˈneɪtˌwɜːrk (This is the pronunciation you'll hear most often in the UK)
    • ˈneɪt: Sounds like "net" (the same as in the American pronunciation).
    • ˌwɜːrk: Same as above – "work", with a light "r".

Here's a helpful breakdown with sounds:

  • 'net' - /net/ (as in 'net' ball)
  • 'work' - /wɜːrk/ (slightly shortened, with a muted "r").

Resources to Listen:

To summarize, generally, think of it as "net work" where the "w" in "work" is almost silent.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you a more detailed breakdown of the mouth movements (though that's harder to convey in text)?

Usage and examples with the word network in English

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

1. As a Physical Connection (Most Common)

  • Definition: A system of interconnected computers, devices, or people that can share data and resources.
  • Examples:
    • "I'm trying to connect to the network to access the internet." (Referring to a Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection)
    • "The company's internal network is incredibly secure."
    • "He built a home network with a router and several computers."
    • "Fiber optic networks are becoming more common for faster internet speeds."

2. As a Social Connection (Networking)

  • Definition: The process of making connections with other people, especially for professional reasons.
  • Examples:
    • "Networking at conferences can lead to new job opportunities."
    • "She spent the evening networking with potential clients."
    • "He's a master of networking; he knows how to build relationships."
    • "I went to a networking event to meet people in my industry."
    • "Don’t just collect business cards; build genuine networks."

3. As a System of Relationships (Broader Sense)

  • Definition: A system of interconnected individuals or groups, often within a particular field or area.
  • Examples:
    • "She's part of a strong network of artists in the city." (Referring to a community)
    • "The intelligence network was responsible for disrupting the terrorist plot." (Referring to a system of information gathering)
    • "He leverages his network of contacts to find rare books." (Referring to people he knows)

4. As a Group of Related Things

  • Definition: A group of things that are connected or associated.
  • Examples:
    • “The network of canals helped to transport goods across the country.” (Referring to a system of waterways)
    • “The TV network broadcast the news program.” (Referring to a media company)

Key Phrases & Variations:

  • Build a network: To create connections.
  • Expand your network: To grow your connections.
  • Network with...: To connect with someone specifically. (“Network with investors.”)
  • Networking skills: The ability to make and maintain connections.
  • Social network: (Often used online) – A collection of online profiles and connections.

Tips for Using "Network" Effectively:

  • Context is crucial: Pay close attention to the surrounding words to determine which meaning of "network" is intended.
  • Be specific: Instead of just saying "I need to network," try “I need to expand my professional network” or “I need to attend a networking event.”

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

  • What are you hoping to use the word "network" for specifically? (e.g., a work presentation, a conversation, writing an essay?)

Synonyms for the word network

Practice with vocabulary network

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company's global IT _______ enables seamless communication between offices on different continents.
  2. Building a strong professional _______ is crucial for career advancement, as it opens doors to new opportunities.
  3. The city's public transportation _______ includes buses, trains, and trams, providing extensive coverage for commuters.
  4. She made valuable _______ at the conference, exchanging contact details with several industry leaders and potential collaborators.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which term best describes a group of interconnected computers and devices that can share resources and data? a) isolated cluster b) standalone unit c) a network d) closed circuit

  2. To expand your career opportunities, it is essential to cultivate a robust professional ________ of contacts. a) chain b) network c) sequence d) hierarchy

  3. The distribution ________ ensures that products reach consumers efficiently across various regions through complex logistical planning. a) arrangement b) network c) grouping d) collection

  4. Before the widespread adoption of the internet, long-distance phone calls were established through a series of physical _______. a) disconnections b) links c) barriers d) separations

  5. The new urban development plan includes a comprehensive ________ of bike paths and pedestrian walkways designed to improve connectivity. a) isolation b) infrastructure c) blockage d) partition

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The organization established various lines of communication to connect its regional branches efficiently. (Rewrite using "network")
  2. Many small businesses depend on strong relationships with local suppliers and customers for their success and resilience. (Rewrite using "network")
  3. The company has set up a new method for managing its inventory and supply chain effectively from manufacturing to delivery. (Rewrite not using "network", but a suitable replacement word)

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. network
  2. network
  3. system
  4. connections

Exercise 2:

  1. c) network
  2. b) network
  3. b) network
  4. b) links
  5. b) infrastructure

Exercise 3:

  1. The organization established a communication network to connect its regional branches efficiently.
  2. Many small businesses depend on a strong local network of suppliers and customers for their success and resilience.
  3. The company has set up a new system for managing its inventory and supply chain effectively from manufacturing to delivery.

Comment ()