What is remedy? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of remedy

remedynoun

/ˈremədi//ˈremədi/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "remedy" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcription and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˈrɛmɪdi/

2. Breakdown:

  • ˈrɛm: This is the first syllable.

    • ˈr - The "r" is a retroflex r, meaning you curl your tongue back slightly toward the roof of your mouth. It's a subtle sound – don’t overdo it! It’s not as strong as an American “r.”
    • ɛ - This is the "e" sound, like in "bed" or "met". It's a short, open "e."
    • m - The "m" sound is straightforward.

  • ɪ: This is a short "i" sound, like in "bit" or "sit."

  • ˈdi: This is the second syllable.

    • ˈd - Again, a retroflex "r" (similar to the first syllable).
    • ɪ - The short "i" sound as before.
    • -y - The "-y" makes it a syllable and is pronounced like the "i" sound.

3. How to Say It (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with the “r”: Make a slight curl with your tongue, but don’t strain. It's a softer "r" than you'd use in many American dialects.
  2. Say "rem": Say "rem" with a short "e" sound like in "bed."
  3. Say "i": Add a short "i" sound like in "bit."
  4. Say "di": Add a short "i" sound and then a "y" sound (like in "sky").

4. Listen for Examples:

  • Google: Search "how to pronounce remedy" on Google and listen to the audio pronunciation.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/remedy/ - This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word from different countries.

Key Points to Remember:

  • Retroflex "r": This is the most challenging part for many learners. Practice by saying "red" and try to make the tongue curl back slightly as you say the "r."
  • Short Vowels: Make sure you’re using the short "e" and short "i" sounds. Don't make them too long.

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Usage and examples with the word remedy in English

Let's break down how to use the word "remedy" in English. It's a versatile word with a few related meanings.

1. As a Noun (the most common usage):

  • Definition: A remedy is something that cures or alleviates a disease or ailment. It's a solution to a problem.
  • Examples:
    • "Honey is a natural remedy for a sore throat." (It cures or helps a sore throat.)
    • "The doctor prescribed a medication as a remedy for her infection." (It's the solution to the infection.)
    • "Traditional herbal remedies are still popular in some cultures." (Referring to a collection of cures.)
    • "He looked for a quick remedy to his headache." (He wanted a solution.)

2. As a Verb:

  • Definition: To remedy means to provide a solution or cure for a problem or difficulty. It's to fix something.
  • Examples:
    • "The company is working to remedy the situation by increasing production." (They’re fixing the problem of low production.)
    • "We need to remedy this error in the report before it goes to the client." (We need to correct the error.)
    • "The government hopes to remedy the housing shortage." (They want to solve the shortage.)

3. Figurative Usage – Addressing a Problem or Issue:

  • "Re-remedy" – This is a less common, slightly more formal way of saying "correct" or "rectify," often used in official contexts. Example: "The council is required to re-remedy the errors in the planning permission."

Key Differences & Similar Words:

  • Treatment vs. Remedy: “Treatment” is a broader term – it includes everything done to help someone, whereas “remedy” specifically refers to a cure or solution.
  • Cure vs. Remedy: Similar to above, “cure” is a complete fixing, while “remedy” can be a lessening or alleviating of a problem.
  • Solution: "Re-medy" is often used interchangeably with "solution," but "remedy" suggests a more active attempt to overcome a difficulty.

Tips for Using "Re-medy" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to whether you're using it as a noun (thing) or a verb (action).
  • Consider the tone: “Re-remedy” has a more official and formal feel.

Resources for Further Learning:

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Synonyms for the word remedy

Practice with vocabulary remedy

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. To address the declining sales, the marketing team proposed a new digital campaign as a potential __________ for the sluggish market performance.
  2. The company implemented a strict new policy to __________ potential security vulnerabilities in their system after the recent data breach.
  3. The scientist sought a definitive __________ for the rare genetic disorder, hoping to alleviate suffering.
  4. Given the complexity of the legal challenge, the firm decided to __________ external counsel specializing in international arbitration.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of these options could be considered a __________ for the common challenge of low employee engagement in large corporations? a) Instituting a quarterly bonus scheme b) Providing professional development opportunities c) Increasing bureaucratic procedures d) Restricting inter-departmental collaboration

  2. After the initial product launch failed to meet expectations, the development team proposed several design modifications as a potential __________. a) obstacle b) remedy c) impediment d) drawback

  3. Facing a chronic budget deficit, the finance committee discussed several austerity measures to __________ the fiscal imbalance. a) exacerbate b) perpetuate c) remedy d) aggravate

  4. The committee decided to __________ the issue of outdated infrastructure by allocating more funds for upgrades. a) ignore b) address c) worsen d) neglect

  5. Effective leadership often involves finding innovative __________ to complex organizational challenges. a) quandaries b) dilemmas c) solutions d) predicaments

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The immediate action required was to put an end to the pervasive misinformation spreading online. (Rewrite using "remedy" or a related word form.)
  2. The company needs to find a way to improve the low staff morale following the recent restructuring. (Rewrite using "remedy" or a related word form.)
  3. The primary objective of the new policy is to ease the financial burden on small businesses. (Rewrite, but do not use "remedy" or related word forms. Use a suitable replacement word.)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. remedy
  2. mitigate / address
  3. remedy / cure
  4. engage / consult

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Instituting a quarterly bonus scheme, b) Providing professional development opportunities
  2. b) remedy
  3. c) remedy
  4. b) address
  5. c) solutions

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. An immediate action was required to remedy the pervasive misinformation spreading online.
  2. The company needs to implement remedial measures for the low staff morale following the recent restructuring.
  3. The primary objective of the new policy is to alleviate the financial burden on small businesses.

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