What is regarding? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of regarding

regardingpreposition

/rɪˈɡɑːdɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of regarding

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "regarding" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "reg-": This part sounds like "regg" – like the beginning of "regret," but shorter and sharper. It's a voiced "r" sound (your tongue vibrates against the roof of your mouth).
  • "ard-": This part sounds like "ahrd" - similar to the word "hard."
  • "-ing": This simply sounds like "ing," as in "singing."

2. Putting it Together:

When you combine them, it’s roughly: “Reh-gार्ड-ing”

3. More Specific Breakdown & Tips:

  • "Reh": Think of the "re" sound as in "red," but slightly softer and less emphasized. It's a quick sound.
  • "Guard": Focus on getting the clear “ahrd” sound for this syllable.
  • "Ing": Smoothly connect the "g" to the "ing." Don't let them sound choppy.

4. Listen to Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:

  • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce regarding" on Google. You'll find audio examples from Merriam-Webster and other dictionaries.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/regarding/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers from various countries.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce regarding."

5. Common Mispronunciations & How to Avoid Them:

  • Saying "regard" instead of "regarding": This is a very common mistake. The "-ing" is crucial.
  • Slurring the "r": Make sure that 're' is clear and voiced.
  • Overemphasizing the "a" in "ard": It’s a short, fairly neutral "ah" sound.

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

  • What's your native language? (This helps me understand potential pronunciation challenges you might have.)
  • What sounds are you finding particularly difficult to master? (e.g., voiced r's, short vowel sounds)?

Usage and examples with the word regarding in English

Let's break down how to use "regarding" in English. It's a slightly formal word, so it's best used in professional or written communication. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Basic Meaning & Function:

"Regarding" essentially means "concerning" or "about." It introduces a topic or subject that you're about to discuss. It sets up a link between what you’ve already said and what you're now going to talk about.

2. Common Uses:

  • Formal Letters & Emails: This is where you'll most often encounter "regarding."

    • Example: "Regarding your application, we are pleased to inform you..."
    • Example: "I am writing to you regarding the upcoming meeting."

  • Business Reports & Documents:

    • Example: "Regarding sales figures for the third quarter..."
    • Example: “The report is regarding the new marketing strategy.”

  • Official Communications: Think government documents, legal notices, etc.

  • Introducing a Topic Briefly: You can use it to smoothly transition to a specific point.

    • Example: “I wanted to discuss something regarding the project timeline.”

3. How to Construct Sentences with "Regarding":

  • "Regarding + [noun/pronoun] + [clause/phrase]" – This is the most common structure.

    • Example: “Regarding the budget, we need to make some adjustments.” (The budget is the noun being discussed.)
    • Example: “Regarding your concerns, I want to assure you…” (Your concerns is the pronoun being discussed.)

  • "Regarding + [clause/phrase]" – You can sometimes use it without a specific noun, focusing on the subject itself.

    • Example: “Regarding the security of our data, we’ve implemented new protocols.” (Here, “the security of our data” is the subject.)

4. Alternatives to "Regarding":

While “regarding” is fine, here are some alternatives that might be suitable depending on the context and desired level of formality:

  • Concerning: (Very similar and often interchangeable) “Concerning the proposal…”
  • About: (More informal, but frequently used) “About the deadline…”
  • With regard to: (More formal than “regarding,” often used in formal letters) “With regard to your inquiry…”
  • As for: (Implies answering a specific question) “As for the cost, it’s outlined in the attached document.”
  • In relation to: (Used when discussing a connection or link) "In relation to the changes, there are some impacts on workflow."

5. Things to Avoid (or Use Sparingly):

  • Don't overuse it: "Regarding" can sound a little stiff if used too frequently. Variety in your sentence structure is good.
  • Avoid using it in very casual conversations: "Regarding" is best suited for more formal interactions.

Example Sentences Showing Different Uses:

  • "Regarding your request for a raise, I'd like to discuss it further." (Formal letter)
  • "I have some information regarding the new policy." (Business communication)
  • "Regarding the weather, it looks like rain tomorrow." (More casual, but still appropriate)
  • “Regarding the benefits of this program, you'll find a detailed explanation in the brochure.”

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

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., formal email, report, essay, conversation?)
  • Can you give me a sentence where you're considering using "regarding"? I can then help you refine it.

Synonyms for the word regarding

Practice with vocabulary regarding

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The CEO addressed several key points _____ the company's financial performance last quarter.
  2. We need to have a serious conversation _____ the implications of this new policy on our team.
  3. The project's delay was primarily _____ unforeseen technical difficulties during the development phase.
  4. The board received numerous questions _____ the proposed acquisition.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Please provide an update _____ the project's current status. a) regarding b) concerning c) about d) for
  2. The official statement clarified the company's position _____ the recent media speculation. a) regarding b) in reference to c) despite d) with regards of
  3. We've received several inquiries _____ the availability of the new software package. a) concerning b) about c) regarding d) along with
  4. She was deeply worried _____ her friend's health after the accident. a) for b) about c) to d) on
  5. The research primarily focused _____ the environmental impact of industrial waste. a) into b) at c) on d) with

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The team will present findings concerning the project's feasibility. (Rewrite using "regarding")
  2. In relation to your inquiry about the job opening, we will contact you shortly. (Rewrite using "regarding")
  3. The new regulations pose several challenges concerning data privacy. (Rewrite without using "regarding" or its synonyms; use a suitable replacement word)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. regarding
  2. about
  3. due to
  4. regarding

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) regarding, b) concerning, c) about
  2. a) regarding, b) in reference to
  3. a) concerning, b) about, c) regarding
  4. b) about
  5. c) on

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The team will present findings regarding the project's feasibility.
  2. Regarding your inquiry about the job opening, we will contact you shortly.
  3. The new regulations pose several challenges for data privacy.

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