What is proud? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of proud

proudadjective

/praʊd/
Definition & pronunciation of proud

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

1. Syllables:

The word "proud" is divided into two syllables:

  • proh (like the "pro" in "problem")
  • -d (as in "dog")

2. Sounds:

  • "proh": This is the trickiest part. It's a bit of a blend of sounds.

    • The "p" sound is very short and almost silent. You're really focusing on the "roh" part.
    • The "roh" sound is a diphthong – it starts as a short "o" sound (like in "top") and then smoothly slides up to an "uh" sound (like in "cup"). Imagine saying "row" but with a slightly more open "o" at the beginning.

  • "-d": This is a simple "d" sound, as in "dog."

3. Putting it together:

So, the whole word sounds something like: proh-d (with a quick, almost seamless transition between the two syllables)

Tips and Resources:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

  • Record Yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to the pronunciation in a dictionary.

Important Note: There is some regional variation in the pronunciation, especially the "proh" part. However, the above pronunciation is generally considered standard.

To help me give you more specific guidance, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from (what accent do you have)?

Usage and examples with the word proud in English

Let's break down how to use the word "proud" effectively in English. It's a wonderfully versatile word, but it needs to be used carefully to convey the right nuance.

1. Basic Meaning: Feeling Happiness and Satisfaction

At its core, "proud" means feeling pleased and satisfied with something you or someone you care about has achieved or done. It's a warm, positive emotion.

  • Example: "I'm so proud of my daughter for graduating college." (This expresses happiness about her accomplishment.)
  • Example: "He's proud of his work as a doctor." (This showcases satisfaction with his profession and dedication.)

2. Different Ways to Use "Proud" – Nuances and Examples

Here's where it gets more interesting. "Proud" can express different levels and types of feeling:

  • Proud of Someone's Achievement: This is the most common usage.

    • "She's incredibly proud of her team's victory."
    • "I'm proud of my friend for overcoming his illness."
    • "He's proud of his children's success."

  • Proud of Yourself: This can be a bit different than being proud of someone else. It often implies a sense of accomplishment or having lived up to your own standards.

    • "I'm proud of myself for finishing that challenging project."
    • "She's proud of her dedication to learning a new language.” (implies she worked hard)

  • Proud of Something You Represent: This connects pride to an identity, group, or value.

    • "He’s proud to be an American." (Patriotism)
    • "She’s proud of her heritage and traditions.” (Cultural pride)
    • "They're proud of their school's reputation." (Pride in an institution)

  • Proud (Often with a slightly heightened or emphatic tone): You can add an “really” or “so” before "proud" to emphasize the feeling.

    • "I'm so proud of you!" (Conveys strong emotion)
    • "I’m really proud of my garden this year." (Highlights the effort and result)

  • Proud of a Family Member (Often related to their deeds):

    • “I’m incredibly proud of my brother for volunteering his time at the animal shelter.”

3. "Proud" vs. "Pleased"

It’s helpful to understand the difference between “proud” and “pleased.” While they’re related, “pleased” is a more mild expression of satisfaction.

  • Pleased: "I'm pleased with the results of the meeting." (A gentle, polite expression of satisfaction).
  • Proud: "I'm proud of my team's hard work and dedication." (Stronger emotion, implying a deeper sense of accomplishment).

4. Common Phrases with “Proud”

  • “I’m proud to say…”: Used to introduce something you're particularly honored about (e.g., "I'm proud to say that we've secured the contract.")
  • “Take pride in…”: Encourages someone to value and cherish something (e.g., “Take pride in your work.”).
  • “Be proud of…”: Encourages someone to acknowledge their accomplishments.

5. Things to Avoid (Overuse & Context)

  • Overuse: Don’t use "proud" constantly. It can lose its impact if you say it about everything.
  • Potentially Offensive in Certain Contexts: Be mindful that expressing intense pride in certain things (like nationality or political affiliations) could be perceived negatively by some people. Consider your audience and the context.

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

  • What are you trying to say specifically? (e.g., “I want to tell my friend she’s proud of her painting.”)
  • What is the context of your sentence? (e.g., a casual conversation, a formal email, a speech?)

Synonyms for the word proud

Idioms of the word proud

(as) proud/pleased as Punch
very proud/pleased
  • Now he's passed his driving test, he's as proud as Punch.

Practice with vocabulary proud

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The team felt incredibly ______ after their innovative project received international recognition.
  2. He was deeply ______ of his humble origins and always remembered where he came from.
  3. The board was sincerely ______ to the CEO for his leadership during the challenging economic period.
  4. Despite the fierce competition, she remained ______ in her ability to secure the promotion.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The entire department was immensely ______ of their colleague's promotion to director. A) content B) satisfied C) proud D) indifferent

  2. After years of dedication, she felt profoundly ______ and ______ of completing her doctoral thesis. A) triumphant B) ashamed C) proud D) delighted

  3. His parents were incredibly ______ when he received the prestigious scholarship to study abroad. A) humble B) pleased C) proud D) boastful

  4. Despite numerous setbacks, the research team remained ______ to achieve their ambitious scientific breakthroughs. A) hesitant B) determined C) complacent D) ambivalent

  5. The spokesperson delivered a ______ statement, defending the company's ethical practices against baseless accusations. A) meek B) tentative C) resolute D) equivocal

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The local community celebrated the remarkable achievement of their young athlete at the Olympic Games. Rewrite (using 'proud' or related form):

  2. Original: She refused to ask for financial help, preferring to handle her difficulties independently. Rewrite (using 'proud' or related form):

  3. Original: His constant emphasis on his own successes often makes him seem rather conceited. Rewrite (do NOT use 'proud', use suitable replacement):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The team felt incredibly proud after their innovative project received international recognition.
  2. He was deeply proud of his humble origins and always remembered where he came from.
  3. The board was sincerely grateful to the CEO for his leadership during the challenging economic period.
  4. Despite the fierce competition, she remained confident in her ability to secure the promotion.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. C) proud
  2. A) triumphant, C) proud, D) delighted
  3. B) pleased, C) proud
  4. B) determined
  5. C) resolute

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The local community was immensely proud of their young athlete's remarkable achievement at the Olympic Games.
  2. She was too proud to ask for financial help, preferring to handle her difficulties independently.
  3. His constant emphasis on his own successes often makes him seem rather arrogant.

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