What is secret? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of secret

secretadjective

/ˈsiːkrɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of secret

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "secret" in English. It's a bit tricky because it's a word where the spelling doesn't always perfectly match the sound.

Here's the most common and widely accepted pronunciation:

** /ˈsiː.krɪt/**

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ˈsiː - This sounds like "see." It's a short, clear "see" sound.
  • krɪ - This is the tricky part. It sounds like "kree." The "i" is pronounced like the "ee" in "see.” The "r" is a very soft, almost unnoticeable "r." It's more like the "r" in "red" but barely there.
  • t - This is a simple, standard "t" sound.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't over-emphasize the "r": The "r" is almost silent. Many people try to pronounce a strong "r" and that's where they go wrong.
  • Focus on the "kree" sound: Practice saying "kree" a few times before putting it all together.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are a few ways to hear the pronunciation:
    • Google it: Search "how to pronounce secret" on Google and click the audio icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/secret/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce secret" – you'll find many videos.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "secret"?

Usage and examples with the word secret in English

Let's break down how to use the word "secret" in English. It's a versatile word with several nuances! Here's a comprehensive guide, broken down into categories:

1. As a Noun (The primary meaning - something hidden)

  • Definition: Something that is intentionally kept hidden from others. It’s something you don't want people to know.

  • Examples:

    • "He kept a secret about his past." (Information he didn't share)
    • "The recipe is a secret passed down through generations." (A hidden formula)
    • “Don’t tell anyone! It’s our secret.” (A confidential thing)
    • "They discovered a secret passage in the castle." (A hidden route)
    • "The company is rumored to have a secret project." (A covert endeavor)

2. As a Verb (To conceal information)

  • Definition: To hide something or keep it confidential.

  • Examples:

    • “She secreted the jewelry in her pocket.” (Hid it carefully)
    • “He secreted his feelings about the situation.” (Hidden his emotions)
    • “The spies secreted microphones in the enemy camp.” (Hid the microphones)

3. Figurative Uses of "Secret"

  • A special or exclusive thing: Sometimes “secret” implies something desirable or enjoyable.

    • "They had a secret meeting." (Suggests it was private and important)
    • "We're keeping the wedding plans a secret." (It's a special, exclusive event)
    • "He has a secret talent for playing the piano." (A hidden skill)

  • A mystery or puzzle: It can imply something unknown and intriguing.

    • "The treasure hunt involved a series of secrets." (Clues and hidden information)
    • “The movie had a lot of secrets.” (Mysteries and unanswered questions)

4. Phrases Using “Secret”

  • Keep a secret: To not reveal something. “Please keep my secret!”
  • Under a secret agreement: (Formal) An agreement that isn't publicly known.
  • A state secret: (Political) Information that is classified and restricted.
  • A closely guarded secret: Something that is protected very carefully.
  • Let the cat out of the bag: (Idiom) To reveal a secret unintentionally. (e.g., "I accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.")

5. Levels of Formality

  • "Secret" is generally considered a fairly common and flexible word.
  • It's suitable for most contexts – casual conversations to formal writing.

Tips for Using “Secret” Effectively:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to how the word is used in the sentence to understand its specific meaning.
  • Emphasize the hidden aspect: Using words like “intentionally,” “hidden,” or “confidential” can highlight the concept of secrecy.
  • Consider synonyms: If you want to vary your language, try words like: confidential, private, hidden, concealed, covert, undisclosed, mysterious.

Could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you interested in using "secret" in? (e.g., writing a story, having a casual conversation, etc.)
  • Are there any specific scenarios you’d like me to illustrate its use with?

Synonyms for the word secret

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