What is signal? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of signal

signalnoun/verb

/ˈsɪɡnl/
Definition & pronunciation of signal

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "signal" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˈsɪɡn.əl/

Let's break that down:

  • ˈsɪɡn: This part is key!
    • ˈ (Stress Mark): This indicates that the first syllable is stressed (louder and longer).
    • sɪ: This sounds like "sih" – similar to the "si" in "sister." It's a diphthong (a gliding vowel sound).
    • ɡ: This is a hard "g" sound, like in "go."
    • n: This is the "n" sound as in "now."
  • əl: This is a short "uh" sound, like the "a" in "about." It's a schwa sound (ə) – a very common, unstressed vowel sound in English.

2. How to Say It (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with a "sih" sound: Say "sih" (like in "sister").
  2. Add a "g" sound: Follow that with a "g" (like in "go"). You should now have "sih-g."
  3. Add an "n" sound: Add an "n" (like in "now"). It’s now "sih-g-n."
  4. End with a short "uh" sound: Finish with a very quick, relaxed "uh" (like in "about"). This completes the word: "sih-g-nuh-l."

3. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't over-emphasize the "g": It’s often a subtle sound.
  • The "uh" sound is important: Don’t pronounce it too strongly. It's a very short, relaxed vowel.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear native speakers say the word. Here are some options:
    • Google Search: Type “how to pronounce signal” into Google and click the audio button.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/signal/ - This website provides audio pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for “how to pronounce signal” on YouTube – you'll find many videos.

To summarize, it sounds like: "SIG-nuhl" (pronounced with the stress on the first syllable)

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word “signal”?

Usage and examples with the word signal in English

Let's break down how to use the word "signal" in English. It's a really versatile word with many different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized by different ways it's used:

1. As a Verb (Action - To Give a Signal)

  • To indicate something: This is the most common usage. It means to show or tell something without speaking.
    • "He waved his hand to signal the taxi." (He used a hand movement to indicate he wanted a ride.)
    • "The lifeguard signaled to us to get out of the water because of the rip current." (The lifeguard used a specific action to warn us.)
    • "The smoke signals a fire." (Smoke is used to indicate a fire.)
  • To transmit information: Especially in technology.
    • "The satellite signals data back to Earth." (The satellite sends information.)
    • "The radio signals instructions to the drone." (The radio transmits commands.)
  • To indicate a change or event:
    • "The ambulance signaled its approach with its sirens." (The ambulance indicated its arrival.)
    • "The alarm signaled a problem with the machinery." (The alarm alerted us to an issue.)

2. As a Noun (Thing - Something That Indicates)

  • A visual hint:
    • "The flashing light was a signal that the train was approaching." (The light was a visual indication.)
    • “The colored flags were a signal to retreat.” (The flags directed a retreat)
  • A sound:
    • "The police car's siren was a distress signal." (The siren was a warning sound.)
    • "The Morse code signal was difficult to decipher." (Morse code is a system of signals.)
  • A message (usually electronic):
    • "I received a signal from my friend on WhatsApp." (A message was transmitted.)
  • A sign of something:
    • "The rising tide was a signal of an impending storm." (The tide was a clue to the storm.)
    • “His sudden silence was a signal that something was wrong.” (His silence indicated a problem)
  • Traffic signals:
    • "The traffic signal turned red, so I had to stop." (A traffic light)
  • Military signals: (Specific codes used by the military)
    • "The troops responded to the field signal". (A pre-arranged code)

3. Figurative Usage

  • A clue or indication: “The broken vase was a signal of a struggle.” (It suggests a fight happened.)
  • A warning: "His nervous fidgeting was a signal of anxiety." (His behavior shows he's worried.)

Here’s a breakdown of common signal types:

  • Light Signals: (Traffic, Emergency, etc.)
  • Sound Signals: (Sirens, Alarms, Beacons)
  • Visual Signals: (Flags, Smoke, Waving)
  • Radio/Electronic Signals: (Data transmission)
  • Body Language Signals: (Facial expressions, gestures)

Tips for Using “Signal” Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "signal" depends heavily on the situation.
  • Synonyms: Consider synonyms like “indicate,” “warn,” “notify,” “transmit,” “hint,” “sign,” etc. to help you choose the best word.

Could you give me a sentence or a context where you’d like to use the word “signal”? I can help you refine your sentence and make sure it sounds natural. For example, tell me:

  • "I want to describe how a skier uses a hand to signal..."
  • "I’m writing about a computer and want to say it sends a signal..."

Synonyms for the word signal

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