What is reserved? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of reserved

reservedadjective

/rɪˈzəːvd/
Definition & pronunciation of reserved

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "reserved." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown of the sounds and how to put them together:

1. The Sounds:

  • Re-: This is pronounced like "ree" (as in "see").
  • -served: This is the most challenging part. It's a diphthong – meaning it’s a combination of two vowel sounds. It starts with a short "e" sound (like in "bed") and glides smoothly into a rounded "uh" sound (like in "cup").

2. Putting It Together:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

ˈrɛz-ˌerved

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ˈrɛz (stress is on this syllable) – "reez" - very short "e" sound.
  • ˌerved – "uh-vrd" – The "uh" sound followed by "vrd" (like "verd" but a bit softer).

3. Helpful Tips & Sound Examples:

  • Listen to native speakers: This is crucial. Here are some resources:

    • Google Translate: Type "reserved" and click the speaker icon to hear the pronunciation.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/reserved/ – This website has audio recordings of the word pronounced by many different native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce reserved" – you’ll find many helpful videos.

  • Focus on the diphthong: Really work on the "uh" sound gliding into the "vrd." Don't just say "reez-served."

  • Exaggerate at first: When you're practicing, slightly over-emphasize the "uh" sound to get a feel for it.

  • Listen to how it's used in context: Hearing "reserved table" or "reserved seat" will help you get the rhythm and flow.

In short, think: "Reez-uh-vrd"

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a slightly different (less common) pronunciation?

Usage and examples with the word reserved in English

Let's break down how to use the word "reserved" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings, so it's important to understand the context. Here's a breakdown of its common uses:

1. As an Adjective (Describing a Person):

  • Meaning: Calm, quiet, and not overly enthusiastic or outgoing. They don't usually show strong emotions or opinions easily.
  • Examples:
    • "He's a very reserved person; it takes a lot to make him laugh."
    • "She was reserved during the interview, but she seemed confident once she got to know the team."
    • "Don't mistake her quietness for disinterest; she’s just naturally reserved."
  • Synonyms: Quiet, aloof, restrained, unemotional, cool, distant.

2. As an Adjective (Describing a Table, Seat, or Space):

  • Meaning: Set aside and not available for general use. It's booked or held for someone or something specific.
  • Examples:
    • "We reserved a table for six at the restaurant."
    • "I reserved seat number 12A."
    • "The conference room is reserved for the client meeting."
    • "There's no parking reserved for VIPs."
  • Related Phrases: "Have you reserved anything?" - "Yes, we reserved a room."

3. As a Verb (Meaning to Hold Something Back):

  • Meaning: To keep a feeling, thought, or action to oneself; to not express something openly. This is subtly different from being reserved (the adjective).
  • Examples:
    • "She reserved her criticism for later." (She didn't express it immediately.)
    • "He reserved his congratulations until he was sure she'd succeeded."
    • "Don't reserve your anger; let it out." (Don't hold it back.)
  • Synonyms: Suppress, withhold, keep back, contain.

4. In Shipping/Logistics (Less Common Usage):

  • Meaning: Placed on hold for shipment, often with a charge.
  • Example: "We reserved a pallet of goods for delivery next week." (This is more formal and often used in business contexts).

Here’s a table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Calm, quiet, not outgoing "He’s a very reserved man."
Adjective Set aside, booked, unavailable "We reserved a table."
Verb To hold back, suppress "She reserved her criticism."

Tips for Using "Reserved" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to how the word is used in the sentence to determine its meaning.
  • Consider the nuance: “Reserved” describes a personality trait, while “reserved” (as a verb) describes an action of holding something back.

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

  • What is the context you're thinking about using the word "reserved" in? (e.g., describing a person, making a reservation, talking about emotions?)

Synonyms for the word reserved

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