What is spirit? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of spirit

spiritnoun

/ˈspɪrɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of spirit

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "spirit" in English. There are a couple of common pronunciations, and both are acceptable! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • ˈspɪrɪt
    • ˈspɪr - This part sounds like "spy" (as in "spyglass") followed by "rit" (like the "rit" in "grit"). The emphasis is on this first syllable.
    • -ɪt - This is a short "i" sound, like in the word "bit".

2. The British English Pronunciation:

  • ˈspɪrɪt (Very similar to the American, but with a slight difference)
    • ˈspɪr - Again, "spy" followed by "rit."
    • -ɪt - Same short "i" sound.

Key Points & Tips:

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  • Break down any specific part of the pronunciation?
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Usage and examples with the word spirit in English

Let's break down how to use the word "spirit" in English. It's a wonderfully versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Noun – Referring to a Non-Physical Essence

  • The Soul: This is the most common and classic meaning. It refers to a person’s inner self, their character, and their essence.
    • Example: "He had a kind spirit." (Meaning he was a kind person, with a good inner nature.)
    • Example: "She lost her spirit after the tragedy." (Meaning she lost her joy, enthusiasm, or sense of self.)
  • The Holy Spirit (Religious): In Christian theology, the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity – God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
    • Example: "She felt the presence of the Holy Spirit during the service."
  • A Feeling of Excitement/Energy: This can describe a general feeling of being alive and motivated.
    • Example: “The crowd had a real spirit of celebration.” (Referring to their enthusiasm)
    • Example: "There was a strong spirit of competition among the contestants."

2. As a Noun – Referring to a Wind or Breeze

  • This is the literal, meteorological meaning.
    • Example: "The forest was filled with the spirit."
    • Example: "A cool spirit rustled the leaves."

3. As a Verb – To Be Filled with Enthusiasm/Courage

  • To possess or embody: To have or show a particular quality, often enthusiasm or courage.
    • Example: “The team spiritedly defended their territory.” (Meaning they bravely defended it.)
    • Example: "The students spiritedly debated the topic.” (Meaning they engaged in a lively and passionate debate.)
  • To energize or revitalise: To give someone or something energy and excitement.
    • Example: “The music spirited him up.” (Meaning it energized or excited him.)

4. Idiomatic Expressions with "Spirit"

  • Keep up your spirits: Don't lose your happiness or optimism. "I’m feeling down, but I'm trying to keep up my spirits."
  • Spirited: Energetic, lively, and full of enthusiasm. “She gave a spirited performance.”
  • Spirit level: (Specifically in construction) A tool for ensuring a surface is perfectly level. (This is a more specialized use.)
  • To be in the spirit of...: To be acting in accordance with the mood or feeling of something. “Let’s be in the spirit of the holidays and spread some cheer.”

Tips for Using "Spirit" Effectively:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "spirit" is heavily dependent on the context of the sentence.
  • Consider the tone: "Spirit" often conveys a feeling of energy, passion, or something intangible.
  • Synonyms: Depending on the meaning you want to convey, consider synonyms like: soul, essence, character, enthusiasm, energy, or gust (for the wind).

Resources for Further Learning:

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  • What kind of context are you thinking of using the word "spirit" in? (e.g., a story, a conversation, a formal essay?)

Synonyms for the word spirit

Idioms of the word spirit

as/when/if the spirit moves you
as/when/if you feel like it
  • I'll go for a run this evening, if the spirit moves me.
  • Make a donation to the charity if the spirit moves you.
fighting spirit
a feeling that you are ready to fight very hard for something or to try something difficult
    in spirit
    in your thoughts
    • I shall be with you in spirit (= thinking about you though not with you physically).
    raise somebody’s spirits
    to make somebody feel more cheerful or brave
    • The sunny weather raised my spirits a little.
    the spirit is willing (but the flesh is weak)
    (humorous, saying)you intend to do good things but you are too lazy, weak or busy to actually do them

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