What is photograph? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of photograph

photographnoun/verb

/ˈfəʊtəɡrɑːf/
Definition & pronunciation of photograph

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "photograph" in English. It's a tricky one! Here's a detailed guide:

1. Breakdown of the Syllables:

  • Photo-: (sounds like "foe-toe") - Think of "foe" as in "foe enemy" and "toe" as in "big toe."
  • -graph: (sounds like "grahf") - This is the tricky part! It’s not like the "graph" in "graph paper."

2. Putting It Together:

The full pronunciation is: foe-toe-grahf

3. Stress:

The stress is on the first syllable: foe-toe-grahf (emphasis on "foe").

4. Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don’t say “photo-graph” like you're combining the two words. Think of them as separate parts.
  • The "grahf" sound is key. It's a soft "g," almost like the "g" in "gift," but shorter and more subtle. It's not a hard "g" like in "gate."
  • Don’t overemphasize the "a" in "graph." It's a quick, subtle sound.

5. Resources for Hearing It:

  • Google Translate: Type "photograph" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear the pronunciation. https://translate.google.com/
  • Forvo: This website has pronunciations by native speakers. https://forvo.com/word/photograph/
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce photograph" on YouTube - you’ll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences to help you use it?

Usage and examples with the word photograph in English

Let's break down how to use the word "photograph" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word!

1. As a Noun (the core meaning):

  • Definition: A photograph is a picture made by recording light on a sensitive surface, such as film or a digital sensor. It's a visual representation of something.

  • Examples:

    • "I took a photograph of the sunset." (A picture was taken)
    • "She has a collection of vintage photographs." (She has many old pictures)
    • "The museum has a large exhibit of black and white photographs." (Pictures without color were on display)
    • "Could I see a photograph of your dog?" (Could I see a picture of your dog?)

2. As a Verb (to take a picture):

  • Definition: To take a photograph is to create a photograph using a camera.

  • Examples:

    • "I photographed the flowers in the garden." (I took a picture of the flowers)
    • "He photographed the band during their concert." (He took pictures of the band)
    • "Please photograph me with the monument." (Please take a picture of me with the monument)

3. Common Phrases & Usage:

  • Take a photograph: This is the most common. “Let’s take a photograph of this.”
  • Photograph someone: "I photographed my friend." (Meaning you took a picture of them.)
  • A photograph of...: “Here’s a photograph of our family.”
  • Photograph (something): “I took a photograph of the castle.” (Referring to the action of taking the picture)
  • Photo: Often used as a short form of "photograph" – “I took a great photo!”

4. Related Terms & Nuances:

  • Snapshot: A quick, informal photograph, often capturing a moment in time. (“I got a snapshot of the kids playing.”)
  • Portrait: A photograph of a person, usually emphasizing their face and personality. (“She had her portrait taken by a professional photographer.”)
  • Landscape photograph: A photograph depicting a natural view.
  • Polaroid: A type of instant photograph (developed immediately).
  • Digital photograph: A photograph taken with a digital camera.

Tips for Using "Photograph" Correctly:

  • Remember the distinction between noun and verb. Make sure you're using "photograph" to describe the picture itself (noun) or the action of taking it (verb).
  • Context is key. The surrounding words will usually make it clear whether you're referring to the picture or the act of taking it.

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

  • What specifically are you trying to do with the word "photograph"? (e.g., are you writing a sentence, describing a situation, etc.)

Synonyms for the word photograph

Practice with vocabulary photograph

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The museum displayed an impressive archival _____ from the early 20th century, showing daily life.
  2. To accurately document the findings, researchers will _____ all samples before analysis.
  3. The architect's detailed _____ provided a clear understanding of the building's layout.
  4. Please ensure all key points are clearly presented in the accompanying _____.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following terms refers to a visual image captured specifically by a camera? A. Sketch B. Photograph C. Blueprint D. Caricature

  2. The report contained several visual representations of the construction site. Which of these could be used to describe them? A. Diagrams B. Photographs C. Illustrations D. Sculptures

  3. Before presenting the artwork to the public, the curator arranged for a professional to _____ each piece for the exhibition catalog. A. illustrate B. sculpt C. photograph D. paint

  4. The scientist carefully examined the microscopic _____ captured through the electron microscope. A. image B. drawing C. picture D. snapshot

  5. During the geological survey, the team created a detailed graphical _____ of the rock formations encountered. A. chart B. diagram C. record D. sketch

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original sentence: The expedition team used their cameras to capture images of the newly discovered species. Rewrite using "photograph" as a verb:

  2. Original sentence: A visual record of the historic treaty signing was displayed in the museum. Rewrite using "photograph" as a noun:

  3. Original sentence: The witness described the suspect's appearance, providing a vivid visual account to the police. Rewrite, do not use "photograph" or related forms (use a suitable replacement word):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. photograph
  2. photograph
  3. blueprint
  4. illustration

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. B. Photograph
  2. A. Diagrams, B. Photographs, C. Illustrations
  3. C. photograph
  4. A. image, C. picture
  5. A. chart, B. diagram, C. record, D. sketch

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The expedition team photographed the newly discovered species.
  2. The museum displayed a photograph of the historic treaty signing.
  3. The witness provided a vivid visual depiction of the suspect's appearance to the police.

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