What is permanent? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of permanent

permanentadjective

/ˈpəːmənənt/
Definition & pronunciation of permanent

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "permanent" in English. It can be a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is divided into three syllables:

  • per - (like the beginning of "peruse")
  • man - (rhymes with "can")
  • ent - (like "went")

2. Sounds:

  • per: The “per” sounds like “pair” – a short “er” sound.
  • man: This is a standard “man” sound.
  • ent: This is tricky! It’s a reduced “ent” sound. It's not like the "ent" in "enter." Think of it like saying "uhnt" very quickly and lightly, almost as if you’re just adding a very brief little “n” sound. It’s almost like it’s part of the "man" syllable.

3. Putting it together:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

ˈpər mæn ən t

Let's break that down visually with the stress marks:

  • ˈpər (stress on the first syllable - “per”)
  • mæn (second syllable - “man”)
  • ən (third syllable – the reduced “ent”)

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't overemphasize the "ent." It's a very subtle sound.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are a few options:
    • Google: Type "how to pronounce permanent" into Google and listen to the audio.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce permanent" on YouTube. There are many videos with clear pronunciations.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/permanent/ – This website allows you to hear native speakers pronounce the word.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the word slowly?
  • Give you another similar word to practice?

Usage and examples with the word permanent in English

Let's break down how to use the word "permanent" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings and applications.

1. Core Meaning: Lasting Forever or Very Long Time

  • Basic Definition: This is the most common usage. It means something that doesn't change or disappear; it continues indefinitely.

    • Example: "This stain is permanent – I've tried everything to get it out." (The stain won’t go away.)
    • Example: "He secured a permanent position with the company." (He got a job that he'll keep indefinitely.)
    • Example: "The damage to the roof is permanent due to the storm." (The damage won't be repaired.)

2. Describing Something Unchangeable / Immutable

  • "Permanent" can describe something that cannot be altered.

    • Example: “A permanent marker” (Unlike a pencil, it won't erase.)
    • Example: “A permanent solution” (Meaning a complete and lasting one.)

3. Regarding Hair / Makeup (Specifically)

  • In beauty contexts, "permanent" refers to a treatment that makes a change that’s intended to be long-lasting.

    • Example: "She got permanent hair straightening." (The straightening is supposed to last a long time.)
    • Example: “Permanent makeup” (Eyeliner or eyebrow tattooing)

4. Legal/Contractual (Formal)

  • Used in legal documents to describe something that’s binding and cannot be easily undone.

    • Example: “The agreement is permanent and binding.”

5. Figurative Usage – Strong & Unyielding

  • Sometimes, "permanent" is used metaphorically to describe a strong or unwavering quality.

    • Example: “He has a permanent frown.” (He always looks unhappy.)
    • Example: “She’s a permanent resident of the nursing home.” (She lives there long-term.)

Key Considerations & How to Use It Correctly:

  • Adjective: "Permanent" is almost always used as an adjective – describing a noun.
  • Stronger than "long-lasting": “Permanent” implies a more definitive and irreversible change than simply “long-lasting” or “durable.”
  • Context is crucial: The specific nuance of “permanent” will depend on the surrounding words.

Here are some phrases that use "permanent":

  • Permanent solution
  • Permanent resident
  • Permanent marker
  • Permanent wave (hair styling)
  • Permanent record (official documentation)
  • Permanent ban (a prohibition that won't be lifted)

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

  • What are you trying to use "permanent" in? (e.g., a sentence, a story, a conversation?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word permanent

Practice with vocabulary permanent

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company is actively seeking a __________ solution to its long-standing cybersecurity vulnerabilities, rather than another temporary patch.
  2. Despite the initial setback, her passion for marine biology proved to be quite __________, driving her to pursue advanced research.
  3. After years of extensive travel, the couple decided it was time to establish a more __________ residence and settle down.
  4. To ensure the project's long-term viability, we must build a __________ framework of clear objectives and consistent stakeholder engagement.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following terms typically suggests a state of employment that is not limited by a specific end date? A) Provisional B) Contractual C) Permanent D) Interim

  2. Which words could describe something that is intended to last indefinitely or for a very long time without significant change? A) Fleeting B) Ephemeral C) Enduring D) Permanent E) Transient

  3. The management team is looking for a __________ fix for the recurring software bug, not just a workaround that will need constant re-evaluation. A) Temporary B) Provisional C) Permanent D) Short-term

  4. Which of the following characteristics is essential for materials used in constructing high-stress industrial machinery? A) Fragile B) Brittle C) Durable D) Flimsy

  5. To achieve project success, a __________ flow of communication between all departments is absolutely crucial. A) Intermittent B) Sporadic C) Consistent D) Erratic

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The university is making changes to its academic calendar that are meant to last forever. Rewrite: The university is making __________.

  2. They decided to live in the rural countryside for the rest of their lives. Rewrite: They decided to __________.

  3. The scientist's groundbreaking discovery had a lasting effect on the entire field of medicine. Rewrite: The scientist's groundbreaking discovery had __________.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. permanent
  2. enduring
  3. permanent
  4. stable

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. C) Permanent
  2. C) Enduring, D) Permanent
  3. C) Permanent
  4. C) Durable
  5. C) Consistent

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The university is making permanent changes to its academic calendar.
  2. They decided to reside permanently in the rural countryside.
  3. The scientist's groundbreaking discovery had an indelible effect on the entire field of medicine.

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