What is product? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of product

productnoun

/ˈprɒdʌkt/
Definition & pronunciation of product

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "product" in English. There are a couple of common ways, and both are generally accepted:

Option 1 (More Common - American English):

  • puh-DROOT
    • puh: Like the "puh" in "cup"
    • DROOT: Rhymes with "root" (as in a tree root). The "o" makes a short, clear "o" sound.

Option 2 (British English):

  • PROH-duct
    • PROH: Like the "pro" in "problem"
    • duct: Like the "duct" in "duct tape"

Here's a breakdown of the sounds to help you:

  • "p": As in "pen"
  • "r": A slightly rolled "r" is often used, especially in American English, but it's not essential.
  • "o": A short, clear "o" sound in both versions.

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

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

  • Where are you located (generally)? (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia - this helps me anticipate the most likely pronunciation you'll hear.)

Usage and examples with the word product in English

Let's break down how to use the word "product" in English. It's a very versatile word with several different meanings. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. As a Tangible Item (Most Common)

  • Definition: This is the most common meaning – a physical item that you can touch, see, and buy.
  • Examples:
    • "The company produces a wide range of products, including cars and electronics."
    • "I bought a new product at the store – a coffee maker."
    • "This is our best-selling product of the year."
    • "The product was damaged in transit."

2. As a Digital or Software Offering

  • Definition: This refers to something that exists in a digital form - software, apps, online courses, ebooks, etc.
  • Examples:
    • "We offer a premium product for managing your social media accounts."
    • "The new product is a mobile app for learning Spanish."
    • "This online product provides access to exclusive content."

3. As a Part of a Larger Offering (Within a Service)

  • Definition: Often used in the context of a service or business where a specific item is a component.
  • Examples:
    • "The meal kit product includes all the ingredients and recipes you need." (Referring to the boxed meal kit)
    • "Our subscription product gives you access to unlimited streaming." (Referring to the streaming service itself)
    • "The beauty product – the face cream – is designed for dry skin."

4. As a Result or Output (More Formal)

  • Definition: Here, "product" refers to something that is created or generated. This usage is more formal and often found in business or scientific contexts.
  • Examples:
    • "The product of the reaction was a white precipitate." (Chemistry)
    • "The product of their hard work was a successful launch." (Business - meaning the result of their efforts)
    • “The product of globalization has been increased trade.”

5. As a Verb (Less Common – Usually "Produce")

  • Definition: To make or create something. "Produce" is the more frequently used verb related to "product."
  • Examples:
    • "The factory produces thousands of cars each year."
    • "The chef produces delicious meals every day."

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Usage Definition Example
Tangible Item A physical thing you can buy “I bought a new phone product.”
Digital Offering A software or app you can download “The streaming product is very easy to use.”
Component A part of a larger service “The meal kit product includes all ingredients.”
Result/Output Something created or generated “The product of their meeting was a plan.”
Verb (Produce) To make or create “The company produces quality goods.”

Tips for Using "Product" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to determine which meaning is intended.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms like “item,” “goods,” “service,” or “creation” depending on the context.

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

  • What are you trying to write or say that you want to use the word "product" in? (e.g., a description of a new item, a sentence about a business, etc.)

Practice with vocabulary product

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research team announced that their new drug, designed to combat rare diseases, is now officially in its testing phase as a viable __________.
  2. High employee morale is often a direct __________ of strong leadership and a supportive work environment.
  3. After extensive market analysis, the firm decided to launch its new advertising __________ aimed at a younger demographic.
  4. The final __________ of the collaborative design process was a detailed prototype showcasing the innovative features.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which terms refer to a tangible good or an intangible result that is created or offered for a specific purpose? A) Service B) Product C) Output D) Provision

  2. When a company diversifies its offerings, it might introduce new items that are the result of its research and development efforts. These new items are often referred to as: A) Resources B) Products C) Elements D) Assets

  3. In a scientific context, what is the term for the substance(s) formed as a result of a chemical reaction? A) Ingredients B) Reactants C) Products D) Solutions

  4. What is the general term for an economic activity where a company provides a non-physical offering, such as consultation or maintenance? A) Goods B) Service C) Utility D) Output

  5. Which of the following describes the total quantity of something produced or obtained from a process, especially in agriculture or manufacturing? A) Inventory B) Supply C) Yield D) Shipment

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The software company's latest creation, a powerful data analytics tool, is gaining significant traction in the market. Rewrite using "product":

  2. Their new initiative aims to produce sustainable consumer goods that minimize environmental impact. Rewrite using "product" or related word form:

  3. The consulting firm offers invaluable expertise and advice to help businesses navigate complex regulatory landscapes. Rewrite without using "product":


Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. product
  2. product
  3. campaign
  4. deliverable

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. B) Product, C) Output
  2. B) Products
  3. C) Products
  4. B) Service
  5. C) Yield

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The software company's latest product, a powerful data analytics tool, is gaining significant traction in the market.
  2. Their new initiative aims to produce sustainable products that minimize environmental impact.
  3. The consulting firm offers invaluable expertise and advice as a service to help businesses navigate complex regulatory landscapes.

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