What is statement? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of statement

statementnoun

/ˈsteɪtm(ə)nt/
Definition & pronunciation of statement

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "statement" in English. Here's a breakdown and a few ways to approach it:

The Most Common and Generally Accepted Pronunciation:

  • ˈsteɪt.mənt (rhymes with "baitment")

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈsteɪ: This part sounds like "stay." The 'a' is pronounced like in "say."
  • t: A short, quick "t" sound.
  • mə: This part sounds like "muh" (like in "Mum").
  • nt: This is a simple "n" sound followed by a "t" sound.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the sounds:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable ("steɪ"). This means that syllable is louder and longer.
  • 'a' Sound: The 'a' in "statement" is a broad 'a' sound – as in “father” or “cat”. Not the short 'a' as in “hat”.
  • 'm' Sound: The 'm' sound is clear and separate.

Resources to Help You Hear It:

Tips for Practicing:

  1. Slow it down: Don't rush when you're learning. Say it slowly and deliberately, focusing on each syllable.
  2. Record yourself: Record yourself saying "statement" and compare it to the audio examples.
  3. Repeat: Practice saying it repeatedly until it feels more natural.

Would you like me to:

  • Provide a slower, more detailed phonetic transcription?
  • Give you some example sentences to practice saying "statement"?

Usage and examples with the word statement in English

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

1. As a Declaration or Announcement:

  • Most Common Usage: This is the most frequent way "statement" is used. It means an expression of something as a fact.
    • Example: "The president made a statement about the economy." (meaning he announced something about the economy)
    • Example: “She issued a statement denying the allegations.” (meaning she formally declared something to be false)
    • Example: "The company released a statement congratulating the CEO on his retirement."

2. As a Formal Statement or Argument:

  • Legal & Official Contexts: In legal, business, and formal writing, "statement" often refers to a written declaration with a specific purpose.
    • Example: "The defendant’s statement to the police was crucial to the case." (a recorded account of what someone said).
    • Example: “The company’s statement of financial position provides a snapshot of their assets and liabilities.” (a formal accounting report).
    • Example: “The lawyer presented a statement of fact to the judge.” (a formal argument presented as true).

3. As a Statement of Opinion or Belief:

  • Less formal, personal views: It can describe a person’s ideas or beliefs.
    • Example: "My statement is that we need to improve our customer service." (expressing an opinion)
    • Example: "He made a bold statement about his political platform.” (expressing a clear and perhaps controversial opinion).

4. As a Sentence (Grammatical Sense):

  • Technical Grammar: “Statement” can refer to a complete sentence (subject + verb + potentially object) that expresses a fact or idea. This is more common in grammar lessons.
    • Example: "This is a simple statement." (referring to the sentence itself.)

5. Phrases using "Statement":

  • Statement of Facts: A written account of events based on accurate information.
  • Statement of Intent: Expressing a plan or goal.
  • Statement of Purpose: Explaining the reason for something (e.g., a job application, a research project).
  • Statement of Support: Expressing agreement or backing.

Tips for Using "Statement" Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "statement" depends heavily on how it's used in a sentence.
  • Formal vs. Informal: "Statement" tends to sound more formal than words like "say" or "think."
  • Action Verbs: "Make a statement" is a common phrase. Other verbs often accompany "statement," such as "issue," "deliver," "present," "deny," "convey," etc.

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

  • In what kind of context are you trying to use the word "statement"? (e.g., writing a report, having a conversation, doing a grammar exercise?)

Synonyms for the word statement

Practice with vocabulary statement

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The CFO meticulously reviewed the company's financial ___________________ before its release to the investors.
  2. During the press conference, the CEO issued a carefully worded ___________________ addressing the recent merger.
  3. After intense negotiations, the two nations signed a joint ___________________ of their commitment to peace.
  4. The project manager submitted a detailed progress ___________________ outlining key milestones and potential risks.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The witness provided a detailed ___________________ of events to the police investigator. a) account b) statement c) report d) testimony

  2. The accountant prepared the year-end ___________________ for tax purposes. a) figures b) summary c) statement d) report

  3. The company's official ___________________ clarified its position on ethical sourcing. a) declaration b) announcement c) statement d) assertion

  4. Scientists developed a testable ___________________ to explain the observed phenomenon. a) speculation b) conjecture c) hypothesis d) assumption

  5. Participants were encouraged to provide ___________________ on the new software's interface. a) remarks b) input c) feedback d) observations

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The CEO publicly declared the company's commitment to sustainability. Rewrite using "statement":
  2. He was asked to write down his version of the incident for the record. Rewrite using "statement" or related word forms:
  3. The professor presented a detailed account of her research findings at the conference. Rewrite, replacing a word with a suitable alternative (do not use "statement"):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. statement
  2. statement
  3. declaration
  4. report

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) account, b) statement, c) report
  2. c) statement, d) report
  3. c) statement
  4. c) hypothesis
  5. b) input, c) feedback

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The CEO made a public statement regarding the company's commitment to sustainability.
  2. He was asked to provide a written statement of his version of the incident for the record.
  3. The professor presented a detailed report of her research findings at the conference.

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