What is peer? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of peer

peernoun

/pɪə(r)//pɪr/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "peer." It's a tricky one because it's often mispronounced! Here's a breakdown:

Correct Pronunciation:

  • PY-er (rhymes with "buyer" or "fire")

Here's a more detailed explanation:

  1. "P" sound: Start with a clear "P" sound.
  2. "Y" sound: The key is the "y" sound. It's a sound that combines a "d" and a "y." Think of it as a short, quick "y" sound as if you were saying "die" really quickly. It's not a long, drawn-out "y" like in "yellow."
  3. "er" sound: Finish with a short "er" sound, like in "her" or "term."

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "peer" like "pair": A very common mistake is to pronounce it like "pair" (pronounced "pair"). This is incorrect.
  • Avoid a long "ee" sound: Don't say "peer" like "beer" or "fear."
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:
    • Google: Search "how to pronounce peer" on Google and listen to the audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/peer/ (This site has pronunciations from native speakers.)
    • YouTube: Search "how to pronounce peer" on YouTube for audio and visual tutorials.

To help me tailor the explanation further, would you like me to:

  • Provide a phonetic transcription of the word? (This is the most accurate, using the International Phonetic Alphabet)

Usage and examples with the word peer in English

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

1. As a Verb (To Look or Examine Closely)

  • Meaning: To look at or examine something closely, often with attention to detail. It implies a careful, focused observation.
  • Examples:
    • "She peered through the rain to see the road." (Looking intently)
    • "He peered at the document, searching for a mistake." (Examining closely)
    • "The detective peered into the shadows, trying to spot clues." (Observing carefully)
  • Synonyms: Observe, scrutinize, examine, glance, scrutinize, look intently.

2. As a Noun (A Person Who is Similar to You)

  • Meaning: This is the most common usage today. A “peer” is someone who holds the same social rank or status as you. It’s the closest equivalent to “contemporary” or "equal." Historically, it referred to a member of the nobility (like a duke, earl, baron, etc.).
  • Examples:
    • "He is a successful entrepreneur, and I consider him a peer in my industry." (Similar profession)
    • "The team worked closely with their peers to develop the new strategy." (Similar role/expertise)
    • "She consulted with her peers before making a major decision." (Similar status or experience)
  • Historical Context (Less Common Now): "The peerage" refers to the hereditary aristocratic titles in the UK.

3. As a Noun (An Animal That Looks Like a Potato)

  • Meaning: This is a very specific and somewhat archaic usage. A "peer" is a type of small, round, brown fish (often a type of goby) that resembles a potato. This is mostly used in British English.
  • Example:
    • “The fishermen caught a few ‘pears’ in the river.” (Referring to the potato-like fish)
  • Note: This meaning is rarely used in American English.

4. As a Verb (To Compare, Assess, or Judge)

  • Meaning: To look at something or someone in comparison to others, to assess its worth or quality.
  • Examples:
    • "The judge will peer at the evidence and decide if the defendant is guilty." (Comparing evidence)
    • "Critics peer at the new movie, wondering if it will live up to the hype." (Evaluating the movie)
    • "Investors peer at the company’s financial statements." (Analyzing the financial health)

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb To look closely "He peered through the fog."
Noun A similar person/social equal "They worked with their peers."
Noun A potato-like fish (British English) “The fishermen caught a few ‘pears.’”
Verb To compare/assess “The reviewer peered at the new play.”

Tips for Using "Peer" Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "peer" depends entirely on the context.
  • Be Aware of Regional Differences: The “potato-like fish” meaning is much more common in the UK.
  • Consider Synonyms: If you’re unsure, using a synonym (like “examine,” “compare,” or “assess”) can help clarify your meaning.

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

  • What are you trying to do with the word "peer"? (e.g., "I'm writing a story and need help choosing the right meaning," or "I want to understand how it's used in formal writing.")

Synonyms for the word peer

Practice with vocabulary peer

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. To ensure the quality of published research, journals typically send submissions out for rigorous _____ review.
  2. After adjusting her eyes to the dim light, she tried to _____ through the dense fog, hoping to spot the approaching vessel.
  3. The company actively encourages its employees to provide constructive feedback to their _____ to foster continuous improvement.
  4. Despite facing initial skepticism, her innovative proposal ultimately gained the _____ of the entire board.

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

  1. Which of the following describes a situation where you might interact with a "peer"? a) Attending a meeting with individuals who hold similar job titles and responsibilities. b) Receiving feedback on your project from a colleague at the same professional level. c) Being evaluated by your direct supervisor during an annual performance review. d) Collaborating on a group assignment with classmates in the same academic program.

  2. In which contexts might the verb "peer" be appropriately used? a) He had to peer closely at the faint inscription on the ancient artifact. b) She joyfully peered over the fence to see her new neighbors moving in. c) The detective peered into the dark alley, searching for any clues. d) The scientist peered through the microscope to examine the cellular structure.

  3. What are the implications of "peer pressure" in a professional setting? a) Being encouraged by colleagues to meet high performance standards. b) Feeling obligated to adopt certain work habits or opinions to fit in with your team. c) Receiving formal directives from management regarding company policy. d) Resisting the urge to participate in unethical practices observed among colleagues.

  4. Select the best word(s) to complete the sentence: "The new CEO sought advice from his trusted _____ before making major strategic decisions." a) mentor b) confidante c) superior d) advisor

  5. Which action involves a quick, brief look rather than a sustained, intense one? a) to scrutinize b) to glimpse c) to inspect d) to survey

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. My colleagues, who hold similar positions in different departments, provided valuable feedback on my proposal. (Rewrite using "peer")

  2. She struggled to see clearly through the dense fog, trying to identify the distant landmark. (Rewrite using "peer")

  3. The senior team member guided and advised the new recruit through her initial tasks. (Rewrite, do NOT use "peer")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. peer
  2. peer
  3. colleagues (or counterparts, associates)
  4. approval (or endorsement, acceptance)

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a, b, d
  2. a, b, c, d
  3. a, b
  4. a, b, d
  5. b

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. My peers in different departments provided valuable feedback on my proposal.
  2. She had to peer through the dense fog, trying to identify the distant landmark.
  3. The senior team member mentored the new recruit through her initial tasks.

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