What is satisfaction? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of satisfaction

satisfactionnoun

/ˌsatɪsˈfakʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of satisfaction

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "satisfaction" in English. It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcription and tips:

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

ˈsætɪs.fæk.ʃən

2. Breakdown & Explanation:

  • ˈsætɪs: This is the most challenging part.

    • sæt: Pronounced like the word "set" (as in "set the table") – short “e” sound.
    • i: Pronounced like the "i" in "bit" or "sit" – a short, centralized "i" sound.
    • s: A typical "s" sound – as in "sun."

  • fæk: Pronounced like the word "фек" (sounds like "fack" but softer and more refined).

    • f: As in "fun"
    • æ: This is a "short a" sound, as in "cat" or "bad." It’s a raised, slightly fronted vowel.

  • ʃən: This is the final part.

    • ʃ: This is the “sh” sound – as in "ship" or "shoe."
    • ən: Pronounced like "un" – a short, unstressed "uh" sound.

3. Putting it Together (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with: "Set" (ˈsæt)
  2. Add: "i" (ɪ) - So you have "seti" (ˈsætɪ)
  3. Add: "s" (s) - So you have "setis" (ˈsætɪs)
  4. Add: "fack" (fæk) - So you have "setisfack" (ˈsætɪs.fæk)
  5. Finally: "shun" (ʃən) - So you have "setisfackshun" (ˈsætɪs.fæk.ʃən)

4. Tips & Tricks:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the second syllable: “satisf-”.
  • Don't over-emphasize the “i”: The “i” in “satisfaction” is fairly short and subtle.
  • The "fack" sound: This is where many people stumble. Practice saying "fack" quickly and smoothly, then relax it slightly for the word. Don’t say it like “fact.”
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Search for "how to pronounce satisfaction" on YouTube. You’ll find many audio and video examples.

Resources for Listening:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/satisfaction/ - Hear pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.
  • Google Search: "How to pronounce satisfaction" - You'll find audio clips on many websites.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some minimal pairs to practice (words that differ by only one sound)?

Usage and examples with the word satisfaction in English

Let's break down how to use the word "satisfaction" in English. It's a versatile word that expresses a feeling of contentment and fulfillment. Here's a breakdown of its different uses, with examples:

1. As a Noun (the core meaning):

  • Definition: A feeling of pleasure and contentment; the state of having one's needs, desires, or expectations fulfilled.
  • Examples:
    • "I felt a great satisfaction in completing the project successfully." (Feeling content after completing something)
    • "Her satisfaction with the food was evident in her delighted smile." (Contentment with something – in this case, food)
    • "He derived satisfaction from helping others." (Finding pleasure and fulfillment in an activity)
    • "Customer satisfaction is a priority for this company." (A measure of how happy customers are)

2. As a Verb (meaning to fulfill or meet a need):

  • Definition: To fulfill or meet the needs, desires, or expectations of someone.
  • Examples:
    • "The new software is designed to satisfy customer demands." (To fulfill demands)
    • "He promised to satisfy her curiosity about the past." (To fulfill her curiosity)
    • “The medication helped to satisfy his hunger.” (To fulfill his need to eat)

3. Phrases Using "Satisfaction":

  • High satisfaction: Very pleased or content. “She expressed high satisfaction with the service.”
  • Complete satisfaction: Fully fulfilling all needs or desires. “He achieved complete satisfaction with the outcome.”
  • Seek satisfaction: To actively pursue something that will bring happiness or fulfillment. “He sought satisfaction in his work.”
  • Satisfaction with…: Contentment with something. "I have satisfaction with my new car."
  • Express satisfaction: To show happiness as a result of something. “He expressed his satisfaction with the results.”

4. Contextual Uses & Nuances:

  • Job Satisfaction: A feeling of contentment in a job – often related to fulfillment, challenges, and rewards. "She is highly motivated by her job satisfaction."
  • Personal Satisfaction: A feeling of fulfilling one’s own needs, goals, or values. “Achieving her personal goals brought her a great deal of personal satisfaction.”
  • Legal Satisfaction: (Rare) In a legal context, it can sometimes refer to the completion of a legal process or the fulfillment of a legal requirement.

Tips for Using "Satisfaction":

  • Think about the source of the satisfaction. What is causing the feeling? Is it an accomplishment, a relationship, an object, an activity?
  • Consider the degree of satisfaction. Is it a mild contentment or a deep, overwhelming feeling? (e.g., “a slight satisfaction” vs. “total satisfaction”)

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What kind of writing are you doing (e.g., essay, email, creative writing)?
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're trying to use the word "satisfaction" so I can give you more specific feedback?

Synonyms for the word satisfaction

Idioms of the word satisfaction

to somebody’s satisfaction
if you do something to somebody’s satisfaction, they are pleased with it
  • The affair was settled to the complete satisfaction of the client.
  • The matter was resolved to our general satisfaction.
if you prove something to somebody’s satisfaction, they believe or accept it
  • Can you demonstrate to our satisfaction that your story is true?

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