What is shelter? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of shelter

shelternoun/verb

/ˈʃɛltə/
Definition & pronunciation of shelter

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "shelter" in English. There are a couple of common pronunciations, and it depends a bit on regional accents. Here's a breakdown:

1. Most Common Pronunciation (General American):

  • SHEH-ter
    • SHEH: Sounds like the word "she" (as in "she is") – a short "e" sound.
    • ter: Sounds like "ter" in "term." (a short "er" sound)

2. British Pronunciation:

  • SHEL-ter
    • SHEL: Sounds like "shell" - a long "e" sound, as in "hello."
    • ter: Same as above - "ter" in "term".

Here's a helpful breakdown to hear the differences:

Tips for getting it right:

  • Focus on the vowel sounds: The difference is primarily in the vowel sound in the first syllable ("shel"). "Sheh" (short e) vs. "Shel" (long e).
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear how native speakers pronounce it. Use the YouTube link or other online resources.

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

  • Where are you located (or what accent are you trying to learn)? (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Australia, etc.)

Usage and examples with the word shelter in English

Let's break down how to use the word "shelter" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized by usage:

1. Literal Shelter (Protection from the Elements):

  • Definition: A place providing protection from the weather (rain, sun, cold, wind).
  • Examples:
    • “We found a cave to shelter from the storm.”
    • “The tent provided shelter from the rain.”
    • “The old tree offered a little shelter from the sun.”
    • “After the flood, people needed immediate shelter.”

2. Figurative Shelter (Protection & Safety):

  • Definition: A safe place, either physically or emotionally, where someone feels protected, secure, and comfortable.
  • Examples:
    • “The library was a shelter for her from the noise of the city.” (Protection from noise)
    • “He sought shelter in his grief after the loss of his wife.” (Emotional protection – comfort in sadness)
    • “The refugees created a shelter for themselves in the abandoned warehouse.” (Physical safety and security)
    • "A loving family provides a vital shelter for children.” (Emotional and physical safety)

3. Providing Shelter (Action):

  • Definition: To offer protection or refuge.
  • Examples:
    • “The Red Cross worked to shelter homeless people during the winter.”
    • “The company will shelter the displaced workers until they can find new jobs.”
    • “He chose to shelter in place during the hurricane.”

4. Shelter (Noun - A Building):

  • Definition: A building designed to provide temporary housing. Think homeless shelters, disaster relief shelters, etc.
  • Examples:
    • “The homeless shelter provided food and blankets.”
    • “The emergency shelter was overwhelmed with people after the earthquake.”
    • “We donated supplies to the animal shelter.”

5. Shelter (Verb - To Find Refuge):

  • Definition: To seek protection or refuge.
  • Examples:
    • “The birds sheltered in the branches of the tree.”
    • “The hikers sheltered from the rain under a large rock.”

Phrases Using "Shelter":

  • Seek shelter: To look for protection.
  • Provide shelter: To offer protection.
  • A place of shelter: A safe or protected location.
  • Under the shelter of…: Protected by… (e.g., "Under the shelter of the mountains.")

Tips for Using "Shelter" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the context to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Synonyms: Consider synonyms like refuge, protection, haven, cover, or abode depending on the situation.

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

  • In what kind of writing are you using this word? (e.g., creative writing, academic essay, casual conversation?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word shelter

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