What is pink? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of pink

pinkadjective

/pɪŋk/
Definition & pronunciation of pink

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "pink" in English. It's a little tricky because it doesn't follow typical English pronunciation rules!

Here's the breakdown:

  • The "P" is silent. Seriously, it's completely silent. Don't say it at all.
  • The "i" is pronounced like the "ink" sound. Think of the word "ink." It’s a short, open “i” sound.
  • The "n" is pronounced like the "n" in "on." (Just the regular "n" sound).
  • The "k" is pronounced like the "c" in "cat". (However, it's a softer "k" sound – almost like a "ch" sound when you're not precise).

Putting it all together, it sounds like:

"pink" (pronounced like “ink” – pronounced like “nink”)

Tips for getting it right:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some other words with silent letters to practice?

Usage and examples with the word pink in English

Let's break down how to use the word "pink" in English! It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings and uses. Here's a detailed look:

1. As a Color:

  • The Primary Meaning: This is the most common use. “Pink” is a color, a pale reddish-purple hue.
    • Examples:
      • "She wore a pink dress."
      • "The sunset was pink."
      • "I love pink flowers."
      • "This is a pink car."

2. Relating to Pink Ribbons & Breast Cancer Awareness:

  • Pink Ribbon Symbolism: “Pink” is inextricably linked to breast cancer awareness. It's used to represent the pink ribbons worn to show support for those affected by the disease.
    • Examples:
      • "She's wearing a pink ribbon to show her support."
      • "They organized a pink walk to raise money."
      • "The event was entirely pink themed."

3. Figurative Meanings & Expressions:

  • Romantic/Sweet/Gentle: "Pink" can describe feelings or things associated with romance, sweetness, and gentleness.

    • Examples:
      • "He's a pink gentleman." (meaning polite and considerate)
      • "She had a pink heart." (meaning kind and compassionate)
      • “It’s a pink idea.” (meaning a lovely or delightful idea)

  • Naive/Innocent (Often Negative): Sometimes, "pink" can imply naivety, innocence, or being overly sentimental. This usage is less common now.

    • Examples:
      • "He’s a bit pink about the whole situation." (meaning he’s overly emotional or sensitive) – Note: This usage can be considered slightly dated.

  • “Pink-tinged” / “Pinkly”: These adverbs describe something that is subtly influenced by pink, or done in a sweet, gentle way.

    • Examples:
      • "Her memories of childhood were pink-tinged." (meaning romanticized and gentle)
      • “She painted a pinkly decorated bedroom.” (meaning she decorated it in a sweet, pastel style)

4. Specific Uses & Terms:

  • Pink Salmon: A specific type of salmon.
  • Pink Slip: (American slang) A pink-colored letter informing an employee they are being fired.
  • Pink Slip (as a color): A pink printed document.
  • Pink Sheet/Book: A publication containing information, often related to bureaucracy or procedures (especially in government).

5. Phrases and Idioms:

  • “Pinky Promise”: A promise made with the pinky finger extended, signifying a serious commitment.
  • “Pinky”: (Referring to the pinky finger)

Tips for Using “Pink” Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand the intended meaning.
  • Be aware of the breast cancer association: It’s important to be sensitive when using “pink” in connection with breast cancer awareness.
  • Use a thesaurus: If you’re unsure of the best word to use, a thesaurus can help you find alternatives that fit the specific nuance you’re aiming for.

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

  • What are you trying to say or write that you want to use the word "pink" in? (e.g., “I want to describe a dress,” “I’m writing about breast cancer awareness,” “I’m trying to describe a feeling.”)

Synonyms for the word pink

Practice with vocabulary pink

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The latest economic report indicates that the manufacturing sector is finally in the ____ after several challenging quarters, showing signs of robust recovery.
  2. For a baby shower, the client requested decorations with a predominantly soft ____ theme, suggesting a classic choice for a girl.
  3. Despite the challenging market conditions, the company reported being in the ____ for the third consecutive quarter, indicating profitability.
  4. The CEO's email provided a very ____ overview of the strategic plan, leaving many details ambiguous.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. For a breast cancer awareness campaign, the primary color utilized in promotional materials is often ____. A) Green B) Yellow C) Pink D) Blue

  2. After receiving excellent feedback on her performance review, she felt completely in the ____. A) Blue B) Black C) Pink D) Red

  3. Which of the following words can describe a light, reddish hue often associated with flowers or sunsets? A) Crimson B) Scarlet C) Rose D) Coral E) Pink

  4. To ensure clarity, please provide a ____ summary of your findings, avoiding jargon. A) Verbose B) Concise C) Ambiguous D) Lengthy

  5. The team leader emphasized the importance of ____ communication to prevent misunderstandings among remote workers. A) Ambiguous B) Transparent C) Obscure D) Vague

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The athlete's health and physical condition are excellent, showing peak performance readiness. (Rewrite using "pink".)

  2. The new brand logo uses a soft, light red hue. (Rewrite using "pink" or a related word form.)

  3. The supervisor made sure the project's objectives were easily understood by everyone on the team. (Rewrite using a suitable replacement word, do not use "pink".)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. pink
  2. pink
  3. black
  4. brief

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. C) Pink
  2. C) Pink
  3. C) Rose, D) Coral, E) Pink
  4. B) Concise
  5. B) Transparent

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The athlete is in the pink, showing peak performance readiness.
  2. The new brand logo uses a soft, pinkish hue.
  3. The supervisor ensured the project's objectives were lucid for everyone on the team.

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