What is nose? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of nose

nosenoun

/nəʊz/
Definition & pronunciation of nose

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "nose" in English. It's a tricky one for some learners!

Here's the breakdown:

  • "no": This part is fairly straightforward. It sounds like the word "no" as in "no way!" (rhymes with "go")
  • "s": This is the trickiest part! The "s" in "nose" is pronounced like the "s" in "sun" or "rose." It's a voiceless "s" sound - your vocal cords don't vibrate.

Putting it together:

It's a quick, clipped sound. Think of saying "no" and then very briefly adding a "sun" sound at the end.

IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) - for the truly curious:

/noʊs/

Tips for getting it right:

  • Listen to native speakers: This is the best way to learn. Search for "how to pronounce nose" on YouTube and listen to several examples. Pay attention to the speed of the pronunciation.
  • Start slowly: Don't try to rush it. Practice saying "no" and "sun" separately, then try to blend them together.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

Resources for Listening:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you another word that sounds similar and is also tricky?

Usage and examples with the word nose in English

Let's break down how to use the word "nose" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word! Here's a comprehensive guide, categorized for clarity:

1. The Basic Definition: The Physical Feature

  • Definition: The nose is the prominent part of the face, located between the eyes and the mouth. It's what we use to breathe and smell.
  • Examples:
    • "She has a nose that wrinkles when she smiles." (Describing a physical characteristic)
    • "He tripped and bumped his nose." (Referring to an injury)
    • "I have a big nose." (A simple statement about a feature)
    • "The doctor examined my nose for allergies."

2. Figurative & Idiomatic Uses (Where it's not just about the physical organ)

  • "To follow someone's nose": To follow someone's instincts or desires, often to find something (like treasure, food, or information).

    • "He followed his nose to the best burger joint in town."
    • "She’s always following her nose and taking impulsive risks."

  • "To have a good/bad nose": To be skilled at detecting something, especially food or danger.

    • “The truffle hunter has a good nose.” (Good at smelling truffles)
    • “She has a bad nose – she can’t smell anything!”

  • "To be up someone’s nose": (Often used in British English) – To be in a complicated or difficult situation.

    • “I’m completely up his nose with all this paperwork.”

  • "Nose to nose": Directly facing each other, usually in a competitive situation.

    • “The cars were nose to nose on the racetrack.”

  • "Nose dive": (Of an aircraft) To plummet downward rapidly.

    • “The plane experienced a sudden nose dive.”

  • "A nose for business": To be good at making money or recognizing business opportunities.

    • "He has a real nose for business - he always knows which companies are going to succeed."

3. Phrases with "Nose"

  • Nose count: The number of rows of teeth in a horse's mouth.
  • Nose job/Rhinoplasty: A surgical procedure to reshape the nose.
  • Nosebleed: A bleeding from the nose.
  • Nosegay: A small bunch of fragrant flowers, often used as a nosegay.

4. Grammatical Notes:

  • Singular vs. Plural: "Nose" is singular. "Noses" is plural.
  • Prepositions: You can use prepositions with "nose": "at the nose," "by the nose," "around the nose."

Tips for Using "Nose" Effectively:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "nose" changes a lot depending on how it's used. Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand the intended meaning.
  • Regional Variations: Some idioms (like "up someone’s nose") are more common in British English.

To help me give you even more targeted information, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to do with the word "nose"? (e.g., write a story, have a conversation, understand a specific phrase?)

Synonyms for the word nose

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