What is second? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of second

secondnumeral/noun

/ˈsɛk(ə)nd/
Definition & pronunciation of second

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

The Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • ˈsɛkənd (rhymes with "deck end")

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈsɛk: This part sounds like "sek" - short "e" sound (like in "bed") followed by a "k" sound.
  • ənd: This part sounds like "end" – a long “e” sound (like in “bee”) followed by a short “n” sound.

The British English Pronunciation:

  • ˈsᴇkənd (the 'e' is often more open, sometimes more like 'eh')

The primary difference is the vowel sound in the first syllable. In British English, it can be a little more open.

Key Tips & Things to Remember:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable ("sek").
  • The "nd" sound: Make sure you pronounce the "nd" as a single unit, not separate "n" and "d".
  • Listen to Examples: The best way to learn is to hear it! Search for "how to pronounce second" on YouTube or use a dictionary website (like Merriam-Webster or Cambridge Dictionary) and listen to the audio examples.

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

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  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a few more examples of words that sound similar?

Usage and examples with the word second in English

Let's break down how to use the word "second" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings and uses! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Number (Ordinal)

  • Meaning: This is the most common usage – it represents position in a sequence. It’s like "number two."
  • Examples:
    • "He came in second place in the race."
    • "She received a second prize for her artwork."
    • "I need a second cup of coffee."

2. Expressing Agreement or Confirmation (Formal)

  • Meaning: Used in formal speeches, debates, or legal proceedings to signify agreement or to ask for a moment to consider a proposal. It's a polite way to indicate you're ready to proceed.
  • Examples:
    • "Are you ready for a vote? All in favor, say second." (Asking for a show of hands.)
    • "I move that we adjourn the meeting. Second." (Making a motion and asking for confirmation.)
    • "With your second, we can proceed to the next item on the agenda."

3. Referring to a Subsequent Time or Event

  • Meaning: Indicating something happening after the first.
  • Examples:
    • “I'll need a second chance to explain.” (After the first explanation.)
    • “Let’s take a second look at the map.” (After the first look.)
    • “She asked for a second opinion.”

4. "Second" as an Adjective (Describing Something Done a Second Time)

  • Meaning: This use is less common but important. It modifies a verb to say something was done twice.
  • Examples:
    • "He gave a second try." (He tried twice.)
    • “She sang a second song.” (She sang two songs in total)

5. “Second” as a Verb (To Do Something Again)

  • Meaning: To do something again, typically after an initial attempt.
  • Examples:
    • “I’ll second your motion.” (To formally support a motion.)
    • “He seconded the idea of a fundraising event.” (He agreed with and supported the idea.)

6. Slang/Informal (Less Common Now)

  • Meaning: (Historically) Refers to being a substitute or taking over the role of someone who is unavailable. This usage is rarely used now and sounds quite dated. It’s more likely to be seen in older literature.

Tips for Using “Second” Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "second" depends entirely on the situation.
  • Formal vs. Informal: “Second” used for agreement is very formal. “Second” as a number is almost always perfectly acceptable.
  • Be aware of the adjective form: Knowing when "second" modifies a verb is important if you're talking about repeated actions.

Resources for Further Learning:

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  • What kind of context are you thinking about? (e.g., a debate, a casual conversation, writing a story, etc.)

Synonyms for the word second

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