What is pimple? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of pimple

pimplenoun

/ˈpɪmpl//ˈpɪmpl/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "pimple" in English! Here's a breakdown:

Phonetic Transcription (Closest to how it's actually spoken):

  • ˈpɪm.pəl

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  1. ˈpɪm - This part sounds like "pim." The "p" is pronounced like in "pen," and the "i" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit." The "m" is pronounced as in "man." The stress (the emphasis) is on this first syllable.
  2. pəl - This part sounds like "pull." The "l" is a light "l" sound – not as strong as in "light."

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: Remember the emphasis is on the first syllable ("PIM").
  • "p" sound: Make sure it's a clear "p" sound, like in "pen."
  • "i" sound: It’s a short "i" sound, like in "bit."
  • "l" sound: The last "l" is a quick, light "l" sound.

Resources for Hearing It:

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Usage and examples with the word pimple in English

Let's break down how to use the word "pimple" effectively in English. It's a pretty common word, but there are nuances to its usage.

1. Basic Meaning: A Small, Inflamed Blemish on the Skin

  • Definition: A pimple (also called a zit or a blemish) is a small, raised, inflamed spot on the skin, usually caused by clogged pores and bacteria.
  • Example: "I woke up with a terrible pimple on my chin."
  • Example: "She tried different creams to get rid of the pimple."

2. Informal and Conversational Uses

  • "Get a pimple": This isn't literally about getting a physical pimple. It’s an idiom meaning to be upset or annoyed.

    • Example: "Don't get a pimple over that little mistake!" (Meaning: Don't get angry/upset)
    • Example: “I didn’t get a pimple, but I was really disappointed with the outcome.”

  • "Pimple-faced": To be embarrassed or ashamed.

    • Example: "He turned pimple-faced when he realized he’d forgotten his wallet."

  • "Pimply": (Rare) Means blushing or becoming red with embarrassment.

    • Example: “She went pimply when he asked her out.”

3. More Formal/Descriptive Uses

  • Referring to the skin condition: You can use it in a more clinical or descriptive way.
    • Example: "The dermatologist diagnosed her with acne and prescribed a topical treatment." (Referring to the acne, which includes pimples)
    • Example: "He’s been struggling with persistent acne and frequent pimples."

4. Phrases and Expressions

  • "Break out": Often used in relation to pimples – “I broke out in pimples after the vacation.” (Meaning to develop pimples)
  • "Pop a pimple": (Very informal and generally discouraged - it can make things worse!) Refers to squeezing or popping a pimple. It's usually best to leave pimples alone.

Important Notes & Tone:

  • Informal: “Pimple,” “zit,” and “blemish” are all informal words for this type of skin issue. They're suitable for casual conversation.
  • Formal: "Skin blemish," "acne lesion," or “inflamed papule” are more formal and professional ways to describe it, especially in a medical context.
  • Sensitivity: Be mindful of people’s feelings. Talking about pimples, especially in front of someone, can be embarrassing.

Resources for More Information:

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Synonyms for the word pimple

Practice with vocabulary pimple

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The teenager felt self-conscious when a visible ______ appeared on his forehead right before the school dance.
  2. She carefully applied a medicated cream to the small ______ to reduce its inflammation and size.
  3. After several days of stress, she developed an embarrassing ______ of small red spots all over her chin.
  4. The new cosmetic product promised to eliminate all facial ______ and improve skin texture.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following terms specifically refers to a small, inflamed lesion on the skin, often with a white or yellow center? a) wart b) mole c) pimple d) blister e) bruise
  2. If you notice a tender, reddish bump on your face that might contain pus, which of these terms could accurately describe it? (Select all that apply) a) spot b) ulcer c) pimple d) abrasion e) blemish
  3. Which of these is a common individual inflammatory manifestation of acne? a) eczema b) psoriasis c) pimple d) dermatitis e) rosacea
  4. Which term is best used to describe a broad area of irritated, red, and often itchy skin, typically caused by an allergic reaction or irritation? a) boil b) rash c) blister d) bruise e) callus
  5. What is the medical term for a small, elevated, solid bump on the skin that does not contain pus? a) pustule b) ulcer c) papule d) blister e) nodule

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: "He was quite embarrassed by the small, red bump that appeared on his chin before the important job interview." Rewrite using "pimple" or a related word form: "He was quite embarrassed by the ______ that appeared on his chin before the important job interview."
  2. Original: "The teenager felt self-conscious because his face was covered in small, red spots." Rewrite using a word related to "pimple": "The teenager felt self-conscious because his face was quite ______."
  3. Original: "Exposure to the new detergent caused an extensive outbreak of red, itchy patches on her arms." Rewrite without using "pimple": "Exposure to the new detergent caused an extensive ______ on her arms."

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. pimple
  2. pimple
  3. breakout
  4. blemishes

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) pimple
  2. a) spot, c) pimple, e) blemish
  3. c) pimple
  4. b) rash
  5. c) papule

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He was quite embarrassed by the pimple that appeared on his chin before the important job interview.
  2. The teenager felt self-conscious because his face was quite pimply.
  3. Exposure to the new detergent caused an extensive rash on her arms.

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