What is passage? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of passage

passagenoun

/ˈpasɪdʒ/
Definition & pronunciation of passage

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "passage." Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈpæsɪdʒ/ (PAH-sij)

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • "PAH": Like the "pa" in "father." It's a short, crisp sound.
  • "sij": This is where it can trip people up. It sounds like "sigh" (as in, a long, deep breath) but with a shortened "i" sound. Think of the "i" in "sit."

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the sounds:

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /ˈpæsɪdʒ/
    • ˈ - This indicates the primary stress (emphasis) is on the first syllable.
    • p - As in “pen”
    • a - As in “father”
    • s - As in “sun”
    • ɪ - A short “i” sound, like in “bit.”
    • dʒ - The “дж” sound (like the “j” in “jump”)

Tips for Saying it Correctly:

  • Stress: Make sure you emphasize the first syllable ("PAH").
  • The "sij" sound: Really focus on shortening the "sigh" sound. Don't let it be too long and drawn out. It should be quick and light. Practicing saying “sigh” quickly can help.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you some similar words to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word passage in English

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

1. Physical Passage (Most Common)

  • Definition: A route or way through a narrow or obstructed area. Think of a path, corridor, or tunnel.
  • Examples:
    • "The hikers followed the narrow passage through the mountains."
    • "The ship sailed through the passage between the islands."
    • "He squeezed through the tight passage in the cave."
    • "A secret passage led from the cellar to the garden."

2. Literary Passage (Writing)

  • Definition: A section or part of a book, article, or other written work.
  • Examples:
    • "The passage described the beautiful sunset was incredibly vivid."
    • "Read the first passage of the novel carefully – it sets the scene.”
    • "I underlined the key passages in my textbook.”
    • “This passage explores the themes of love and loss.”
    • "The author skillfully used imagery in this passage."

3. Religious Passage (Biblical/Religious Texts)

  • Definition: A specific section or chapter within a religious text like the Bible.
  • Examples:
    • “He studied the Old Testament passages about forgiveness.”
    • “The preacher quoted a powerful passage from the Gospel of John.”

4. Transit Passage (Train/Bus)

  • Definition: A route or station where passengers transfer between trains, buses, or other forms of transport.
  • Examples:
    • “The underground passage connected two different lines.”
    • "We waited in the transfer passage for our connecting train."

5. Figurative Passage (Less Common, but worth noting)

  • Definition: A transition or movement from one state or idea to another. It can describe a shift in feeling, thought, or experience.
  • Example: “There was a painful passage in his life when his grandfather died.” (Here, "passage" refers to a period or stage of emotional change.)

Key Considerations & Tips:

  • Context is King: The meaning of "passage" is always determined by how it's used in the sentence.
  • Synonyms: Depending on the context, you might use synonyms like: section, part, segment, route, corridor, stretch (for physical passages); excerpt, passage, section (for literary passages).

Resources for More Information:

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

  • In what context are you trying to use the word "passage"? (e.g., writing a story, discussing a book, talking about travel, etc.)

Practice with vocabulary passage

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research paper included a lengthy _______ detailing the experimental methodology and findings.
  2. Following extensive negotiations, the swift _______ of the new trade agreement through Parliament was widely celebrated.
  3. Students were asked to analyze a specific _______ from the historical document, focusing on its influence.
  4. Navigating the winding mountain _______ required careful planning and a reliable vehicle.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words can describe a specific section of written material, often quoted or analyzed? a) line b) passage c) idiom d) excerpt e) chapter

  2. What term is commonly used for a narrow way, path, or internal route allowing movement through a building or area? a) corridor b) tunnel c) passage d) pathway e) avenue

  3. Which of these words describes the process of moving from one state, phase, or place to another? a) transition b) transformation c) passage d) evolution e) arrival

  4. Identify the word(s) that best describe a brief, illustrative story or incident, often personal. a) anecdote b) memoir c) fable d) narrative e) account

  5. Which term refers to a detailed plan or sequence of actions designed to achieve a specific objective? a) itinerary b) strategy c) approach d) procedure e) methodology

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The legal team carefully reviewed the section of the contract concerning intellectual property rights.
  2. The new legislative proposal is expected to move quickly through the various stages of parliamentary review.
  3. To reach the main server room, visitors must walk down a long, dimly lit hall.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. passage
  2. passage
  3. excerpt
  4. route

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) passage, d) excerpt
  2. a) corridor, c) passage, d) pathway
  3. a) transition, c) passage, d) evolution
  4. a) anecdote, e) account
  5. b) strategy, d) procedure, e) methodology

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The legal team carefully reviewed a specific passage in the contract concerning intellectual property rights.
  2. The new legislative proposal is expected to have a swift passage through the various stages of parliamentary review.
  3. To reach the main server room, visitors must walk down a long, dimly lit corridor.

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