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

    Comment ()