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?
  • Give you some example sentences to practice with?

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

      Practice with vocabulary spirit

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. The company actively promotes a collaborative ______ among its employees to foster innovation.
      2. While the contract outlines specific terms, the ______ of the agreement emphasizes mutual trust and cooperation.
      3. Despite the recent budget cuts, the team maintained a positive ______ and remained optimistic about achieving their goals.
      4. The new project manager quickly improved the general ______ of the office, making it a more engaging place to work.

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

      1. Which of the following words can describe the general enthusiasm and morale within a group or team? (Select all that apply) a) energy b) zeal c) spirit d) apathy

      2. When discussing the underlying meaning or true intention of a rule or document rather than its exact wording, which term is most appropriate? (Select all that apply) a) essence b) intention c) spirit d) letter

      3. To describe a person's characteristic attitude or disposition, particularly in a positive and energetic sense, which words would be suitable? (Select all that apply) a) morale b) attitude c) spirit d) disposition

      4. Which words refer to the innermost, intangible part of a person, often associated with emotions, character, or core identity? (Select all that apply) a) soul b) core c) being d) façade

      5. What word best describes a person's established way of thinking or their prevailing mental attitude towards a situation or life in general? (Select all that apply) a) mindset b) temperament c) outlook d) demeanor

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. Original: The entire department showed great enthusiasm for the upcoming charity event. Rewrite using "spirit":
      2. Original: It is crucial to understand the fundamental intention behind the policy, not just its exact wording. Rewrite using "spirit":
      3. Original: Her unwavering determination allowed her to overcome significant personal challenges. Rewrite not using "spirit":

      Answer:

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. spirit
      2. spirit
      3. outlook
      4. atmosphere

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

      1. a) energy, b) zeal, c) spirit
      2. a) essence, b) intention, c) spirit
      3. b) attitude, c) spirit, d) disposition
      4. a) soul, b) core, c) being
      5. a) mindset, c) outlook

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. The entire department showed great spirit for the upcoming charity event.
      2. It is crucial to understand the spirit of the policy, not just its exact wording.
      3. Her unwavering resolve allowed her to overcome significant personal challenges.

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