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

Practice with vocabulary shelter

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. During the heavy storm, we sought ______________ under a large oak tree.
  2. The city opened an emergency ______________ to house residents displaced by the flood.
  3. The diplomat was granted political ______________ in the host country after expressing fear for their safety.
  4. Access to affordable ______________ is a fundamental human right that many non-profit organizations advocate for globally.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following can provide a form of shelter? a) A well-constructed tent in a forest b) A thick, protective forest canopy c) A temporary relief camp established after a disaster d) A sturdy umbrella during a light drizzle

  2. A non-profit organization established a new program to offer temporary ______________ for victims of domestic violence. a) refuge b) accommodation c) shelter d) asylum

  3. To "take shelter" from a storm primarily means: a) to endure the weather without protection b) to find a place of safety or protection from adverse conditions c) to observe the storm from a distance d) to seek refuge from harsh environmental elements

  4. Which word implies official protection granted by a state to a person fleeing persecution from another country? a) dormitory b) asylum c) quarters d) lodge

  5. Which of these facilities primarily offers temporary housing and support services to individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness? a) Retirement home b) Halfway house c) Youth hostel d) Rehabilitation center

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The explorers found a safe place to rest, protected from the strong winds. Rewrite (using "shelter" or related word forms):
  2. Original: The government's new initiative aims to provide secure living spaces for all citizens, especially those affected by natural disasters. Rewrite (using "shelter" or related word forms):
  3. Original: Many people look for a place of safety and quiet during times of crisis. Rewrite (not using "shelter"):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. shelter
  2. shelter
  3. asylum
  4. housing

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) A well-constructed tent in a forest b) A thick, protective forest canopy c) A temporary relief camp established after a disaster d) A sturdy umbrella during a light drizzle
  2. a) refuge b) accommodation c) shelter
  3. b) to find a place of safety or protection from adverse conditions d) to seek refuge from harsh environmental elements
  4. b) asylum
  5. b) Halfway house

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The explorers sheltered from the strong winds in a safe place to rest.
  2. The government's new initiative aims to provide shelter for all citizens, especially those affected by natural disasters.
  3. Many people seek a haven of safety and quiet during times of crisis.

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