What is smooth? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of smooth

smoothadjective

/smuːð/
Definition & pronunciation of smooth

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "smooth" in English. Here's a breakdown of the sounds and a few tips:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /smiːθ/ (This is the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) symbol)

Let's break it down phonetically:

  1. "sm" - The "sm" sound is tricky! It's not like the "sm" in "smile." It's a quick, almost fused sound. Think of it as a blend of "s" and "m" that flows together. It's a subtle sound.

  2. "oo" - This is the same "oo" sound you'd use in words like "moon" or "food." It's a rounded vowel.

  3. "th" - This is the "th" sound as in "this" or "thin." It's a voiceless dental fricative – meaning your tongue touches the top of your teeth.

Putting it all together:

Imagine saying "smee" (like "smee than") and then quickly adding a "th" sound at the end. It's a fast, connected flow.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't overemphasize the "th": The "th" is soft and quick. Don’t make it a strong, distinct "th."
  • Focus on the blended "sm" sound: This is the key. Practice saying "sm" quickly and smoothly.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "smooth" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/smooth/ (This website has pronunciations by native speakers.)
    • YouTube: Search "how to pronounce smooth" - you'll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

Common Mispronunciations:

  • "smooth" as "smoot": This is a very common mistake. The "th" sound is what differentiates it.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some practice words to say?

Usage and examples with the word smooth in English

Let's break down how to use the word "smooth" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with lots of different meanings! Here’s a categorized breakdown with examples:

1. Describing Texture & Appearance:

  • Smooth (adjective): This is the most common usage. It describes something that lacks roughness or bumps.
    • Example: "She had smooth, pale skin."
    • Example: "The marble countertop was incredibly smooth."
    • Example: "He used a smooth stone to rub his feet."

2. Describing Movement & Flow:

  • Smooth (adjective): This refers to something flowing without interruption or difficulty.
    • Example: "The driver navigated the winding road with a smooth turn." (referring to a graceful, effortless turn)
    • Example: “The transition between scenes in the movie was incredibly smooth.”
    • Example: "He had a smooth delivery of the speech – confident and well-rehearsed." (meaning his delivery flowed well)

3. Describing Processes & Actions:

  • Smooth (adjective): Used to describe a process that goes without problems or complications.
    • Example: “The negotiations went really smooth.” (meaning they went easily and without disagreement)
    • Example: “They negotiated a smooth agreement with the workers.”
    • Example: “The process of moving was surprisingly smooth.” (meaning it wasn’t difficult or stressful)

4. Figurative Language (Describing Character & Relationships):

  • Smooth (adjective): Can describe someone who is charming, persuasive, and perhaps a little manipulative. This usage often has a slightly negative connotation.
    • Example: "He's a smooth talker - be careful what you say to him." (meaning he’s good at convincing people)
    • Example: "She had a smooth way of getting what she wanted." (meaning she was subtly persuasive)

5. “Smooth Out” (Verb):

  • Smooth out (verb): To make something even, less rough, or more regular.
    • Example: “I smoothed out the wrinkles in the tablecloth.”
    • Example: “He smoothed out his hair.”
    • Example: "Let's smooth out the details of the contract." (meaning let’s make them clearer and more even.)

6. "Smooth Operator" (Noun - Informal):

  • Smooth operator (noun): This is a slang term for someone who is skilled at charming and manipulating people to get what they want. (Often used with a slightly ironic or critical tone).
    • Example: "That guy is a smooth operator – don't trust him!"

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Category Meaning Example
Texture/Appearance Lacking roughness "The surface was smooth."
Movement/Flow Flowing without difficulty "The path was smooth and easy."
Processes/Actions Without problems "The transition was smooth."
Figurative Charming, persuasive "He's a smooth talker."
Verb (to make even) To make even, regular "Smooth out the wrinkles."
Slang (Noun) Skilled manipulator "He's a smooth operator."

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

  • What kind of context are you thinking about using "smooth" in? (e.g., describing a physical object, a process, a person's personality, etc.)

Synonyms for the word smooth

Idioms of the word smooth

be smooth/clear sailing
to be simple and free from trouble

    Practice with vocabulary smooth

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. After weeks of meticulous planning, the project launch proceeded incredibly _____, exceeding all expectations.
    2. The sculptor carefully polished the marble until its surface felt perfectly _____.
    3. The data analysis revealed a _____ decline in sales over the last quarter, requiring immediate attention.
    4. Her presentation style was always very _____ and articulate, capturing the audience's attention from the start.

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

    1. Which of the following words can describe a surface that is free from bumps or roughness? a) coarse b) rugged c) smooth d) jagged e) rough

    2. Which of these words describes a transition or operation that occurs without interruption or difficulty? a) seamless b) convoluted c) bumpy d) effortless e) smooth

    3. What word best characterizes a drink or sauce that has a consistent, uniform texture without lumps? a) chunky b) grainy c) lumpy d) smooth e) thick

    4. Which of the following accurately describes a person who speaks a language easily and correctly? a) hesitant b) articulate c) fluent d) stammering e) eloquent

    5. Select the adjectives that best describe an action performed with great skill and grace. a) clumsy b) awkward c) proficient d) skillful e) inept

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. The company worked hard to ensure that the integration of the new software had no problems. (Rewrite the sentence using "smooth" or a related word form.)

    2. Her presentation flowed very easily and was effortless to follow. (Rewrite the sentence using "smooth" or a related word form.)

    3. The financial market has been without significant changes or rapid fluctuations recently. (Rewrite the sentence without using "smooth" or its related forms, using a suitable replacement word.)

    Answer:

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. smooth
    2. smooth
    3. gradual
    4. fluent

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. c) smooth
    2. a) seamless, d) effortless, e) smooth
    3. d) smooth
    4. b) articulate, c) fluent, e) eloquent
    5. c) proficient, d) skillful

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. The company worked hard to ensure a smooth integration of the new software.
    2. Her presentation was incredibly smooth and easy to follow.
    3. The financial market has been relatively stable recently, without significant changes or rapid fluctuations.

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