What is sort? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of sort

sortnoun/verb

/sɔːt/
Definition & pronunciation of sort

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "sort" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners!

Here's the best way to say it, broken down into syllables and with explanations:

Pronunciation: /ˈsɔːrt/ (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet)

Breakdown:

  • “Sort” is typically pronounced as two syllables: sort - art
  • "Sort" (first syllable): This sounds like the word "raw" (like uncooked food). The "or" makes a broad "aw" sound, like in "law" or "saw." Think of it as a deeper, more open "ah" sound than you might use in everyday speech.
  • "Art" (second syllable): This sounds like the word "art." It's a short, clear "a" sound, like in "cat."

Putting it together: Say it smoothly as: "Rawrt" (almost like you’re quickly blending the two words together)

Here’s a visual to help:

  • Imagine saying “raw” then quickly adding a second “a” sound.

Resources for Hearing It:

Common Mispronunciations & Why They're Wrong:

  • Saying "sore": This is a very common mistake because "sore" has a different meaning.
  • Saying "sort" with a short "o" sound: Crucially, it's not a short "o" sound like in "hot." It's the broad “aw” sound.

To help me tailor advice further, could you tell me:

  • Are you a native English speaker who's struggling to get the pronunciation exactly right?
  • Are you a non-native speaker, and if so, what language(s) do you speak?

Usage and examples with the word sort in English

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

1. As a Verb – To Arrange:

  • Most Common Meaning: This is the most frequent way "sort" is used. It means to put things in a specific order.
    • Example: "I need to sort my emails – there are so many!" (Putting them in folders)
    • Example: "Can you sort these books by author?" (Arranging them alphabetically)
    • Example: "Let's sort out the donations – we need to pack them neatly." (Organizing them)
    • Example: "I'm trying to sort my thoughts before I start writing." (Organizing your ideas)

2. As a Verb – To Determine (Often in a Complex Situation):

  • This usage implies figuring out a solution or deciding how something will be handled. It's often about dealing with a problem.
    • Example: "We need to sort out this problem with the broken machine." (Solve it)
    • Example: "Let’s sort out the details of the trip." (Work out the arrangements)
    • Example: "They're trying to sort out their relationship.” (Resolve their issues)

3. As an Adjective – Of a Specific Type / Distinct:

  • Meaning: Used to describe something that is clearly defined, specific, or separate. It’s like saying “particular” or “distinct.”
    • Example: "I need a sort of quiet place to study." (A specific kind of place)
    • Example: "There’s a sort of feeling that something’s about to happen.” (A particular feeling)
    • Example: “That's a sort of interesting idea." (A specific type of idea)
    • Note: This usage often includes “of” or “kind of.”

4. "Sort Through" – To Examine Carefully:

  • Meaning: To look through a collection of things, often to find something specific.
    • Example: “I need to sort through this pile of old photos.” (Look through it)
    • Example: “Let’s sort through your closet and donate anything you don’t wear.” (Go through it to decide what to get rid of)

5. “Sort Of” – Approximately / Somewhat:

  • Meaning: This is a common idiom used to indicate something isn’t completely true or exact, but is close.
    • Example: “I was sort of hoping to go to the beach.” (I was hoping, but it wasn't a strong desire)
    • Example: “It’s sort of raining.” (It’s drizzling, not a heavy downpour)

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb (main) To arrange "Sort the papers on your desk."
Verb (problem) To solve/decide "Let's sort out the travel plans."
Adjective Specific/Distinct "A sort of mysterious atmosphere."
Verb (examine) To look through "Sort through the documents."
Idiom Approximately/Somewhat "I was sort of tired."

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What kind of context are you interested in? (e.g., everyday conversation, writing, business English?)
  • Is there a specific sentence you're struggling with using "sort"?

Synonyms for the word sort

Idioms of the word sort

it takes all sorts (to make a world)
(saying)used to say that you think somebody’s behaviour is very strange or unusual but that everyone is different and likes different things
  • ‘They spent their honeymoon mountain climbing.’ ‘Oh well, it takes all sorts!’
nothing of the sort/kind
used to emphasize that the situation is very different from what has been said
  • ‘I was terrible!’ ‘You were nothing of the sort.’
of sorts
(informal)used when you are saying that something is not a good example of a particular type of thing
  • He offered us an apology of sorts.
out of sorts
(especially British English)ill or upset
  • She was tired and out of sorts by the time she arrived home.
  • Are you feeling all right? You look a bit out of sorts.
sort of
to some extent but in a way that you cannot easily describe
  • She sort of pretends that she doesn't really care.
  • ‘Do you understand?’ ‘Sort of.’
a/some sort of something
(informal)used for describing something in a not very exact way
  • I had a sort of feeling that he wouldn't come.
  • She was jumping around like some sort of kangaroo.
  • They're a sort of greenish-blue colour.
  • I was glad about it afterwards, in a funny sort of way.

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