What is science? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of science

sciencenoun

/ˈsʌɪəns/
Definition & pronunciation of science

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

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈsaɪən.s/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. "Sci-": This part sounds like "sigh" – like you’re breathing out slowly. It's a short, quick "sigh" sound.
  2. "–en": This sounds like the "yen" in "yen" (the Japanese currency) or the "yes" in "yes." It's a short, open "eh" sound.
  3. "–ce": This is the trickiest part. It sounds like "s" (as in "sun"). It's not "sye."

Putting it together: "Sigh-en-s"

Tips & Common Mistakes:

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  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
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Usage and examples with the word science in English

Let's break down how to use the word "science" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a lot of nuances, so understanding how to use it correctly is important.

1. Basic Definition & Usage:

  • Science is the pursuit of knowledge about the natural world through observation and experimentation. It’s a broad term encompassing many different disciplines.
  • Common Phrases:
    • "The study of science..." (e.g., "The study of science is fascinating.")
    • "Scientific research..." (e.g., "Scientific research is crucial for advancements.")
    • "A scientific theory..." (e.g., "Einstein's theory of relativity is a cornerstone of science.")
    • "He's a scientist." (Referring to a person who studies science professionally.)

2. Specific Disciplines of Science (Examples):

Science is actually made up of many fields. Here are some common ones:

  • Biology: The study of living organisms. (e.g., "Biology teaches us about plants and animals.")
  • Chemistry: The study of matter and its properties. (e.g., "Chemistry is important for understanding how medicines work.")
  • Physics: The study of matter, energy, and their interactions. (e.g., "Physics explains how things move.")
  • Astronomy: The study of celestial objects and phenomena. (e.g., "Astronomy helps us explore the universe.")
  • Geology: The study of the Earth. (e.g., "Geology explains how mountains are formed.")
  • Mathematics: While sometimes considered separately, it's a fundamental science – the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns. (e.g., “Mathematics is the language of science.”)
  • Environmental Science: The study of the environment and its problems. (e.g., “Environmental science focuses on sustainability.”)

3. Using “Science” in Sentences - Examples:

  • Describing a Topic: "Let's talk about science education."
  • Referring to a Discovery: "The discovery of penicillin was a major breakthrough in science."
  • Evaluating Research: “The results of the scientific study were inconclusive.” (Note: "Scientific" is often used as an adjective to modify a noun – e.g., a scientific study.)
  • Discussing the Process: "The process of science involves careful observation and rigorous testing.”
  • Expressing Importance: "Investing in science is crucial for future innovation.”
  • Referring to a Scientific Field: "She’s studying marine biology."

4. Important Distinctions: "Science" vs. "Scientific”

  • Science: The noun – the field of knowledge itself. (e.g., "I love studying science.")
  • Scientific: The adjective – relating to science. (e.g., "a scientific method," "scientific evidence," "scientific breakthrough.")

5. Common Phrases & Idioms with "Science":

  • The scientific method: A systematic approach to investigation and discovery.
  • State-of-the-art science: The most advanced scientific research.
  • To conduct scientific research: To carry out scientific investigations.
  • Science fiction: (A humorous use) Stories that explore imaginative ideas, often involving technology beyond what is currently possible.

Resources for Further Learning:


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

  • What specifically are you trying to do with the word "science"? (e.g., write an essay, have a conversation, explain a concept to someone, etc.)
  • Is there a particular context you’re thinking about? (e.g., a specific scientific field, a certain topic, etc.)

Idioms of the word science

blind somebody with science
to confuse somebody by using technical or complicated language that they do not understand

    Practice with vocabulary science

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. The rapid advancement of medical ________ has led to significant breakthroughs in treating complex diseases.
    2. Understanding human behavior often requires insights from various fields, including psychology, sociology, and other social ________.
    3. Before implementing the new policy, the committee required a thorough ________ of its potential economic impact.
    4. A career in pure ________ typically involves conducting experiments and publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals.

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. Which of the following fields are primarily concerned with the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation? (Choose all that apply) a) Astrophysics b) Literary criticism c) Botany d) Metaphysics e) Chemistry

    2. To develop effective solutions for environmental challenges, a strong foundation in environmental ________ is essential. a) dogma b) rhetoric c) science d) tradition e) philosophy

    3. In academic and professional settings, which of these terms typically refer to branches of systematic inquiry that involve empirical investigation and theoretical analysis? (Choose all that apply) a) Computer science b) Performing arts c) Political science d) Social sciences e) Theology

    4. Before launching a new product, market ________ is crucial to understand consumer needs and preferences. a) speculation b) research c) intuition d) conjecture e) opinion

    5. The company's innovative approach was the result of extensive product development and rigorous testing in specialized ________. a) forums b) laboratories c) conventions d) hypotheses e) blueprints

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. The careful study of how living organisms function, from cells to ecosystems, has led to many medical breakthroughs and technological innovations. (Rewrite using a word related to "science")

    2. Engineers and product developers frequently apply principles derived from systematic investigation to create new technologies. (Rewrite using an adjective form of "science")

    3. The detailed collection and analysis of information are essential for making informed decisions in business and policy. (Rewrite without using "science" or related forms, choosing a suitable replacement)


    Answer:

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. science
    2. disciplines
    3. analysis
    4. science

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. a) Astrophysics, c) Botany, e) Chemistry
    2. c) science
    3. a) Computer science, c) Political science, d) Social sciences
    4. b) research
    5. b) laboratories

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Life science, which involves the careful study of how living organisms function from cells to ecosystems, has led to many medical breakthroughs and technological innovations.
    2. Engineers and product developers frequently apply scientific principles derived from systematic investigation to create new technologies.
    3. The detailed data collection and analysis of information are essential for making informed decisions in business and policy.

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