What is resident? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of resident

residentnoun

/ˈrɛzɪd(ə)nt/
Definition & pronunciation of resident

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "resident." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a detailed explanation:

1. The Core Sound:

  • Reh (ruh): The first syllable starts with a short "r" sound – like in "red." Don't over-emphasize the 'r' – it’s subtle.
  • Zeh (zeh): The second syllable has a "z" sound, but it's a bit unusual in English. It’s not like the 'z' in "zoo."

2. Putting it Together:

The pronunciation is roughly: ruh-ZEH-dent

3. Breakdown & Tips:

  • "Reh" (ruh): This is like the "re" in "red." Keep it short and quick.
  • "ZEH" (zeh): This is where most people stumble. It’s a sound between "z" and "sh." Imagine saying "z" but rounding your lips slightly as you would for "sh." It's a bit of a stretched, almost buzzing "z" sound. Think of it as a breathy "z."
  • "dent": Pronounce this exactly as you would for the word "dentist."

4. Resources for Hearing It:

  • Google Translate: Type "resident" into Google Translate, click the speaker icon, and you’ll hear a native speaker pronounce it.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/resident/ - Forvo is a fantastic website with pronunciations recorded by native speakers from different regions.

5. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them:

  • Over-emphasizing the 'r': The 'r' is very subtle. Don’t make it a strong 'r' sound.
  • Saying "rez-ident": This is a common mistake. The second syllable is not a clear "z" sound. It’s that slightly stretched, buzzing "zeh."
  • Rounding your lips too much for "sh": You’re aiming for a "z" sound with a bit of rounding, not a full “sh” sound.

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from? (Some accents might slightly influence the pronunciation.)

Usage and examples with the word resident in English

Let's break down how to use the word "resident" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings and uses. Here's a categorized breakdown:

1. As an Adjective (Describing People):

  • Meaning: Living in a particular place, often long-term. It implies a more established connection than just a visitor.
  • Examples:
    • "The resident population of the town is over 10,000." (Talking about people living there)
    • "She’s a resident artist at the gallery." (Meaning she lives and works there)
    • "He's a resident doctor at the hospital." (He’s regularly employed and based there)
    • “We’re looking for a resident volunteer.” (Someone who lives in the area and helps out)

2. As a Noun (Referring to People):

  • Meaning: A person who lives in a particular place. Similar to "inhabitant."
  • Examples:
    • "The residents of the apartment complex voted on the new rules." (The people who live in the complex)
    • "The hotel staff welcomed the residents." (The guests staying at the hotel)

3. In Legal and Official Contexts:

  • Meaning: This is a VERY common usage and has specific legal definitions. It refers to someone who has the legal right to live in a place.
  • Examples:
    • "Resident alien” – A non-citizen who lives in a country for a certain period and may be eligible for a green card.
    • "Resident magistrate” – A judge who sits at a local court.
    • "Resident permit” – Authorization to live in a particular area.
    • "He was granted resident status after applying for asylum."

4. In Real Estate (Property):

  • Meaning: Refers to a property that is owned or leased to someone.
  • Examples:
    • "For sale: A charming resident property in the countryside." (A house or land already owned or rented)
    • "The tenant is a resident of the property." (The person renting the house)

5. Less Common, More Figurative Uses:

  • Resident (of a feeling/state): This is used to describe something that is habitually present or characteristic of a place or situation. It’s less common now, often replaced by more direct words.
    • "A sense of peace is a resident of this garden." (Meaning it's a characteristic quality of the garden)

Key Differences & Synonyms

  • Resident vs. Visitor: "Resident" implies a more permanent or established presence than "visitor."
  • Synonyms:
    • For people living: inhabitant, dweller, occupant, resident.
    • For legal status: alien, legal resident, homeowner.

Tips for Using "Resident" Correctly:

  • Context is crucial: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand the specific meaning.
  • Legal definitions are precise: If you're discussing legal issues related to residency, be sure to use the correct terminology.

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

  • What are you trying to do with the word "resident"? (e.g., write a sentence, understand a news article, etc.)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word resident

Practice with vocabulary resident

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. All new ___________ must register with the building management office within one week of moving in.
  2. The city council launched a new initiative to gather feedback from its long-term ___________ on urban development plans.
  3. Despite being a sprawling metropolis, New York City surprisingly has a diverse array of wildlife, including many bird species that are year-round ___________.
  4. The apartment complex strictly prohibits short-term rentals, ensuring that only permanent ___________ live in the units, not temporary visitors.

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

  1. Which of the following terms best describes a person who lives permanently or on a long-term basis in a particular place? a) tourist b) visitor c) resident d) sojourner

  2. In a medical context, what might a doctor who is undergoing specialized training in a hospital be called? a) intern b) consultant c) resident d) surgeon

  3. The local government offers various services primarily for its __________. a) citizens b) dwellers c) residents d) inhabitants

  4. Which word best describes a person who legally belongs to a country and has the rights and protection of that country? a) migrant b) citizen c) alien d) refugee

  5. Who is generally responsible for paying rent in a leased property? a) landlord b) owner c) tenant d) proprietor

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. People who live in the area have expressed concerns about the proposed construction project.
    • Rewrite using a form of "resident".
  2. She has been living permanently in the city for over two decades.
    • Rewrite using a form of "reside" or "resident".
  3. The hotel was fully booked, with every room having a person staying in it.
    • Rewrite using a suitable replacement word for "person staying in it".

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. All new residents must register with the building management office within one week of moving in.
  2. The city council launched a new initiative to gather feedback from its long-term residents on urban development plans.
  3. Despite being a sprawling metropolis, New York City surprisingly has a diverse array of wildlife, including many bird species that are year-round inhabitants.
  4. The apartment complex strictly prohibits short-term rentals, ensuring that only permanent occupants live in the units, not temporary visitors.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) resident
  2. c) resident
  3. a) citizens, c) residents, d) inhabitants
  4. b) citizen
  5. c) tenant

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The residents of the area have expressed concerns about the proposed construction project.
  2. She is a long-term resident of the city, having lived there for over two decades. (Alternatively: She has resided in the city for over two decades.)
  3. The hotel was fully booked, with every room having an occupant.

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