What is stance? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of stance

stancenoun

/stæns//stæns/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "stance" in English. Here's a breakdown with audio references if you want to hear it:

Pronunciation:

  • /stæns/ (This is the most common and generally accepted pronunciation)

Here's a syllable-by-syllable breakdown:

  1. st - Like the "st" in "stop" or "street." Short and sharp.
  2. a - Like the "a" in "father" or "cat." (a short "ah" sound)
  3. nce - This is the tricky part! It's a slightly rounded "ah" sound, almost like "ans." It's important not to pronounce it like "dance." Think of a softer, more relaxed "ah" than you'd use in "father."

IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /stæns/

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't overemphasize the "nce": It's a subtle sound, not a loud one.
  • Keep the "a" short: A drawn-out "ah" sound will make it sound wrong.
  • Visualize: Imagine you’re saying “sta-ns.”

Audio References (Highly Recommended!)

  • Google: Simply search "how to pronounce stance" on Google, and it will usually have a playback button.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/stance/ - This website has recordings of native English speakers pronouncing the word.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you an example sentence using the word "stance"?

Usage and examples with the word stance in English

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

1. Physical Posture/Position (Most Common)

  • Meaning: This is the most frequent usage. It refers to the way someone holds their body, their posture, or how they're positioned.
  • Examples:
    • "Her stance was slightly hunched over, suggesting she was feeling insecure."
    • "He adopted a confident stance as he approached the podium."
    • “The dancer maintained a graceful stance throughout the performance.”

2. Attitude/Position on an Issue (Strong Belief/Opinion)

  • Meaning: This refers to a declared position or viewpoint on a particular topic, often one that’s firm and unwavering. It's about how someone feels or believes about something.
  • Examples:
    • "The company took a strong stance against environmental pollution." (They've publicly declared their opposition.)
    • “The politician's stance on immigration is controversial.” (Their opinion on immigration is causing debate.)
    • "She adopted a neutral stance on the issue, refusing to take sides." (She didn’t express a preference.)
    • “The government’s stance on social welfare reform is to cut funding.”

3. A Position on a Debate/Argument (Logical Position)

  • Meaning: Similar to #2, but more focused on a reasoned argument. It describes the point of view someone is taking within a discussion.
  • Examples:
    • “The lawyer presented a compelling stance arguing for his client’s innocence.” (A well-supported argument)
    • “Their stance on the topic was based on years of research.” (Their argument was grounded in evidence.)

4. (Less Common) A Footing/Ground (Figurative)

  • Meaning: This is a less frequent usage, often used figuratively. It refers to a secure or stable position.
  • Example: "He wasn't sure of his stance on the project, and worried about the potential risks." (He wasn't confident about the project's stability.)

Key Points & How to Choose the Right Meaning:

  • Context is key! The surrounding words and the overall situation will usually make it clear which meaning of “stance” is intended.
  • Look for keywords: Words like "posture," “opinion,” “believe,” “argument,” or “position” often signal that you're dealing with the physical or opinion-based meaning.

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Meaning Description Example
Physical Posture How someone holds their body “She maintained a relaxed stance.”
Opinion/Position A declared belief or viewpoint "The union took a firm stance."
Debate Position A reasoning position within an argument "He presented a solid stance."
Fig. Footing A stable or secure position (figurative) “His stance on the deal was shaky.”

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What kind of context are you using the word "stance" in? (e.g., writing a story, giving a presentation, having a conversation)

Synonyms for the word stance

Practice with vocabulary stance

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The CEO's firm ______ on ethical business practices resonated with investors.
  2. During the debate, both candidates articulated their ______ on economic reform.
  3. The company's official ______ regarding data privacy is outlined in its terms of service.
  4. He adopted a more open-minded ______ after hearing the counter-arguments.

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

  1. Her unwavering ______ on the importance of ethical research earned her respect within the academic community. a) posture b) stance c) footing d) opinion

  2. The government has adopted a firm ______ against any form of discrimination in the workplace. a) stand b) stance c) position d) view

  3. Which of the following words can convey a specific, often publicly declared, viewpoint or belief on a matter? a) perspective b) outlook c) stance d) disposition

  4. The company's new ______ aims to significantly reduce its carbon footprint over the next five years. a) policy b) strategy c) outlook d) program

  5. Despite the chaotic environment, he displayed a calm ______ throughout the crisis meeting. a) demeanor b) attitude c) composure d) presence

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The department clearly stated its disapproval of the new regulations. Rewritten: The department made its ______ on the new regulations clear.

  2. Original: She adopted a strong position against the proposed merger. Rewritten: She took a strong ______ against the proposed merger.

  3. Original: His overall manner suggested he was ready for a confrontation. Rewritten: His overall ______ suggested he was ready for a confrontation.

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. stance
  2. stance
  3. policy
  4. outlook / attitude

Exercise 2:

  1. b) stance, d) opinion
  2. a) stand, b) stance, c) position, d) view
  3. a) perspective, c) stance
  4. a) policy, b) strategy, d) program
  5. a) demeanor, c) composure, d) presence

Exercise 3:

  1. The department made its stance on the new regulations clear.
  2. She took a strong stance against the proposed merger.
  3. His overall demeanor suggested he was ready for a confrontation.

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