What is posture? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of posture

posturenoun

/ˈpɒstʃə(r)//ˈpɑːstʃər/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "posture." Here's a good guide:

1. Syllables:

  • The word "posture" is typically said in two syllables: pos-ture

2. Sounds:

  • "Pos": This syllable sounds like "pos" in "possum" or "passport." It's a short, clear "uh" sound.
  • "ture": This syllable sounds like "ture" in "future" or "structure." It's also a short, clear "uh" sound.

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly: "Pos-ture"

Then, speed it up a little: "Post-ture"

Here's a breakdown of the sounds using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which can be helpful for refining your pronunciation:

  • ˈpɒstʃər

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable ("pos").
  • Short "uh" sounds: Both syllables should have short, unstressed "uh" sounds. Don't over-emphasize them.
  • Don't add an "e" sound: Avoid saying "post-cher" or anything similar.

Resources for Hearing It:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you other examples of similar words to practice?
  • Record myself saying "posture" (though I can't actually hear your attempt)?

Usage and examples with the word posture in English

Let's break down how to use the word "posture" in English. It has several different meanings and contexts. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Physical Posture (Most Common Meaning)

  • Definition: This refers to the way a person holds their body – their stance, position, and alignment.
  • Examples:
    • "He has a good posture – he sits up straight and doesn’t slouch." (Describes physical positioning)
    • "Sitting for too long can affect your posture and lead to back pain." (Discussing the impact on the body)
    • "Try to maintain a confident posture when you're speaking in a meeting." (Advice on how to stand/sit)
    • “The physiotherapist helped her improve her posture after the accident.” (Medical context)

2. Manner of Bearing (More Formal)

  • Definition: This refers to a person’s overall demeanor, how they present themselves to the world, often conveying confidence, grace, or respect. It's less about literal physical position and more about an impression.
  • Examples:
    • "She had a regal posture, radiating wealth and authority." (Suggests a stately and impressive demeanor)
    • "His posture was defensive, indicating he was feeling threatened." (Describing a behavior pattern)
    • “He adopted a more open posture when he realized I was interested in his ideas.” (Changing an attitude or behavior)

3. Social Posture

  • Definition: This refers to a person’s position or standing within a group or society – their social status, influence, or role.
  • Examples:
    • "After his success, he quickly rose to a high posture in the company." (Referring to a position of power or influence)
    • "The politician carefully cultivated a positive posture with the voters." (Building a favorable reputation)

4. (Less Common) – A Piece of Furniture

  • Definition: Rarely, "posture" can refer to a piece of furniture, like a chaise lounge or a comfortable chair designed for reclining.
  • Example: “She settled into her favorite posture in the armchair with a good book.”

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Meaning Definition Example
Physical How the body is held physically "His posture was slouched."
Manner of Bearing Overall demeanor, presentation "She had a poised posture."
Social Position in a group or society "He achieved a high social posture."
Furniture A reclining chair or lounge "She relaxed in her posture."

Tips for Using "Posture" Effectively:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "posture" will be clear from the surrounding words and the overall situation.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms like “stance,” “position,” “demeanor,” “bearing,” or “standing” to add nuance.
  • Be specific: If you're describing physical posture, you can be more detailed ("He held his shoulders back," "He had a forward-leaning posture").

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

  • What is the context you're thinking about using "posture" in? (e.g., writing a story, giving a presentation, describing someone, etc.)

Synonyms for the word posture

Practice with vocabulary posture

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Maintaining a proper ______ is essential for preventing back pain and improving overall spinal health, especially when seated for long periods.
  2. The company's new public relations ______ aims to rebuild trust with stakeholders after the recent scandal.
  3. During the negotiation, her calm and confident ______ helped convey a sense of authority and resolve.
  4. His impressive ______ during the military parade reflected years of disciplined training and self-control.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (select all that apply)

  1. Which of the following actions can positively impact one's physical ______? a) Slouching over a computer b) Practicing yoga and stretching c) Using an ergonomic chair d) Maintaining a sedentary lifestyle
  2. A government's foreign ______ might be described by which of these terms? a) Policy b) Stance c) Velocity d) Posture e) Agenda
  3. What are some common indicators of good ______ in public speaking? a) Leaning heavily on a lectern b) Standing tall with shoulders back c) Making eye contact d) Projecting confidence e) Fidgeting constantly
  4. Which terms best describe a person's overall professional ______ or conduct? a) Demeanor b) Bearing c) Posture d) Temperament e) Etiquette
  5. The organization took a firm ______ against the proposed legislation, arguing it would harm economic growth. a) post b) stance c) array d) disposition

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: Sitting with a straight back and shoulders relaxed is crucial for preventing neck and shoulder strain. Rewrite using "posture" or a related word form:
  2. Original: The CEO's firm attitude regarding financial ethics was widely respected within the industry. Rewrite using "posture" or a related word form:
  3. Original: Her graceful way of carrying herself made a strong impression on the interview panel. Rewrite without using "posture" or a related word form:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. posture
  2. posture
  3. demeanor
  4. bearing

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Practicing yoga and stretching, c) Using an ergonomic chair
  2. a) Policy, b) Stance, d) Posture, e) Agenda
  3. b) Standing tall with shoulders back, d) Projecting confidence
  4. a) Demeanor, b) Bearing, e) Etiquette
  5. b) stance

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Rewrite: Maintaining good posture, with a straight back and relaxed shoulders, is crucial for preventing neck and shoulder strain.
  2. Rewrite: The CEO's firm posture regarding financial ethics was widely respected within the industry.
  3. Rewrite: Her graceful bearing made a strong impression on the interview panel.

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