What is sport? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of sport

sportnoun

/spɔːt/
Definition & pronunciation of sport

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

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /spɔːrt/ (rhymes with "sort" or "mort")

Let's break that down further:

  • sp - Pronounced like the "sp" in "spot." It’s a quick, brief "sp" sound.
  • o - Pronounced like the "o" in "more" or "born." Short and contained.
  • r - This is the key! In British English, the "r" is trilled – meaning you vibrate your tongue against the roof of your mouth as you say it. It’s a little shaky and quick. (Not all Americans do this.)
  • t - Pronounced as you'd expect, like the "t" in "top."

American pronunciation is slightly different (and less emphasized):

  • /spɑːrt/ (rhymes with "part")

Here, the “a” is extended slightly longer – a bit more like “part”. The “r” is often softer, and the trill is less common.

Resources to help you hear it:

Tips:

  • Focus on the "sp" sound: It's the foundation.
  • The "r" is important: Try to get some vibration if you're aiming for a British accent. Don't worry too much about a perfect trill if you’re just starting—a slight roll is better than nothing.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear how it's actually said.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some examples of words that use the same sounds ("spot," "sort")?

Usage and examples with the word sport in English

Let's break down how to use the word "sport" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and ways to incorporate it into your speech and writing.

1. As a Noun (the activity itself)

This is the most common use. "Sport" refers to a physical activity or game played for recreation and often competitively.

  • Examples:
    • "Tennis is my favorite sport." (Referring to the activity)
    • "He’s a keen sport of rugby." (Meaning he enjoys playing rugby)
    • “Swimming is a great sport for exercise.”
    • "They’re competing in the marathon sport."

2. As a Noun (the organized competition)

Sometimes, "sport" refers to the organized competition or event itself – think of a tournament or league.

  • Examples:
    • "The World Cup is a major sport." (Referring to the tournament)
    • "I watched the Formula 1 sport last weekend." (Referring to the racing event)
    • "The football sport is very popular in England.”

3. As an Adjective (describing something related to sports)

“Sporty” describes someone who is active, enjoys sports, or has a sporty appearance.

  • Examples:
    • "She’s a very sporty girl; she plays several sports." (Describing her activity level)
    • "He wore a sporty jacket.” (Describing the style of the jacket)
    • "This car is designed to be very sporty – fast and handling well.”

4. Figurative Use (meaning "effort" or "attempt")

This is a less common and more formal usage. "Sport" can mean an attempt to do something, often with a sense of grace or politeness.

  • Examples:
    • "He offered to sport his strength to help her move the furniture." (He used his strength politely)
    • "I'll sport my best dress to the party.” (I’ll make an effort to look my best) – Very old-fashioned!

Here's a breakdown to help you remember the main uses:

Use Meaning Example
Noun Physical activity/game “Basketball is a popular sport.”
Noun Organized competition/event “The Olympic Games are a huge sport.”
Adjective Active, sporty, related to sports “She’s a very sporty athlete.”
Figurative Effort, polite attempt “He offered to sport his help.”

Tips for Using "Sport" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to how the word is used in the sentence to understand its meaning.
  • Common Sports: Know some common sports (football, basketball, tennis, swimming, rugby, cricket, golf, etc.) to help you describe activities.
  • "Sportsman/Sportswoman": These terms refer to someone who is skilled and demonstrates good sportsmanship – fairness, respect, and graciousness. "He's a great sportsman."

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

  • What are you trying to do with the word "sport"? (e.g., write a description of a game, talk about your hobbies, etc.)?

Synonyms for the word sport

Idioms of the word sport

be a bad sport
(informal)to be unpleasant or unhelpful, especially in a difficult situation or when you have lost a game
    be a (good) sport
    (informal)to be generous, cheerful and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation or when you have lost a game
    • She's a good sport.
    • Go on, be a sport (= used when asking somebody to help you).

    Practice with vocabulary sport

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. Many universities offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, with competitive _______ playing a significant role in student life.
    2. Engaging in regular physical _______ is essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.
    3. Professional _______ has evolved into a global industry, generating billions in revenue and employing millions worldwide.
    4. She decided to take up a new _______, hoping to spend her weekends more productively than just watching TV.

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

    1. Which of the following words can refer to a physical activity or game pursued for recreation or competition? a) Game b) Pastime c) Sport d) Chore

    2. In a business meeting discussing wellness programs, which options best complete the sentence: "Promoting employee engagement in _______ is crucial for team building and stress reduction." a) healthy pursuits b) athletic endeavors c) recreational activities d) organized sport

    3. When discussing the impact of technology on athletic performance, which term is most specific to an organized, competitive physical discipline? a) Game b) Activity c) Sport d) Entertainment

    4. Which word best describes the specific event where two teams compete against each other in a specific discipline, such as soccer or basketball? a) Match b) Contest c) Practice d) Performance

    5. Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: "Before running the marathon, participants must ensure their bodies are adequately conditioned through rigorous _______." a) training b) recreation c) pastime d) sport

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Original: Participating in physically demanding games helps develop discipline and teamwork. Rewrite (using "sport" or related forms):

    2. Original: The upcoming Olympic competitions will feature athletes from over 200 countries. Rewrite (using "sport" or related forms):

    3. Original: Her main leisure activity involves collecting rare stamps. Rewrite (without "sport"):

    Answer:

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. sport
    2. activity
    3. sport
    4. hobby

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. a) Game, c) Sport
    2. a) healthy pursuits, b) athletic endeavors, c) recreational activities, d) organized sport
    3. c) Sport
    4. a) Match, b) Contest
    5. a) training

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Engaging in sport helps develop discipline and teamwork.
    2. The upcoming Olympic sporting events will feature athletes from over 200 countries.
    3. Her main hobby involves collecting rare stamps.

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