What is stool? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of stool

stoolnoun

/stuːl/
Definition & pronunciation of stool

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "stool" in English. Here's a breakdown of the sounds and a few ways to say it:

1. Phonetic Transcription (for accuracy):

  • /stʊl/ (This is the most precise way to write it using the International Phonetic Alphabet – IPA)

2. Breakdown of the Sounds:

  • "st": This is pronounced like the "st" in "stop" or "street." It’s a short, clear “st” sound.
  • "oo": This is a long "oo" sound, like in the word "moon" or "food." It's a rounded vowel sound.
  • "l": A simple, standard "l" sound.

3. How to Say It Aloud:

There are a couple of slightly different ways people pronounce it, but the main one is:

  • "Stool" – Say it like: "Stool" (rhymes with "tool"). Stress is on the first syllable ("st").

4. Common Mistakes & Tips:

  • Don't say "stewl." That's a very common mistake! The "oo" is key.
  • Keep the "oo" sound clear. A weak or short "oo" will make it sound wrong.
  • Try saying it with words that have the same "oo" sound: "moon," "blue," "food."

Resources to Hear It:

  • Google Search: Just search for "how to pronounce stool" on Google and you'll find audio pronunciations immediately.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/%C8%A7tool/ – This website offers pronunciations by native speakers.

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

  • Are you learning British English or American English? (Pronunciation can vary slightly between the two.)

Usage and examples with the word stool in English

Let's break down how to use the word "stool" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different meanings!

1. Basic Definition: A Small Seat

  • Most Common Use: A stool is a small, simple seat, often without a back or arms. Think of a little step-stool, a bar stool, or a folding stool.

    • Example: "He climbed onto the stool to reach the cookie jar."
    • Example: "The cafe had several wooden stools around the tables."

2. Different Types of Stools & Specific Uses:

  • Step Stool: A small stool designed to help you reach higher places.

    • Example: "My daughter uses a step stool to help her tidy her room."

  • Bar Stool: A stool designed to be used while sitting at a bar. They're usually adjustable in height.

    • Example: "We grabbed some bar stools at the new cocktail lounge."

  • Folding Stool: A stool that can be folded up for easy storage.

    • Example: "We packed a folding stool for our camping trip."

  • Toilet Stool: A small stool used to help people with mobility issues get up from or to a toilet.

    • Example: “He used a toilet stool to assist with sitting down.”

  • Drum Stool: A small, round stool often used in jazz and blues music - the drummer sits on one.

    • Example: "The drummer sat comfortably on his stool during the performance."

  • Hunting Stool: A small, sturdy stool used by hunters to sit on while waiting for game.

    • Example: "The hunter settled onto his stool in the woods."

3. Figurative Use (Less Common):

  • A 'stool' for someone (to sit on their accomplishments): This is a more idiomatic and less frequently used meaning. It suggests someone who is being promoted or given a prestigious position. It’s often used in a slightly sarcastic or dismissive way.

    • Example: "He was placed on a stool after his successful campaign." (Meaning he was promoted, but possibly not deservedly.)

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right word:

  • If you're talking about a seat without back or arms: Use "stool."
  • If you're referring to a specific type of stool: Use the more specific term (step stool, bar stool, etc.).

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use "stool" in sentences?
  • Explain a specific type of stool in more detail (e.g., bar stools)?
  • Help you understand a particular sentence that uses "stool?"

Synonyms for the word stool

Idioms of the word stool

fall between two stools
(British English)to fail to be or to get either of two choices, both of which would have been acceptable

    Practice with vocabulary stool

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. During the lab experiment, Sarah carefully adjusted the microscope while seated on a tall, adjustable ________.
    2. The physician advised the patient to monitor the consistency and frequency of their ________ for a week.
    3. For the team meeting, extra ________ were brought in to accommodate all attendees comfortably.
    4. The antique ________ was an impressive piece, intricately carved and designed to hold a single large potted plant.

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. Which of the following is typically a backless, often elevated, single-person seat? a) ottoman b) sofa c) stool d) pew e) recliner

    2. In a clinical setting, what term is commonly used for excreted solid waste from the digestive system? a) urine b) sputum c) stool d) vomit e) feces

    3. If you need a compact, portable seating option for a short duration, which might you consider? a) dining chair b) folding stool c) beanbag d) office chair e) loveseat

    4. To create a more collaborative atmosphere during a workshop, the organizers decided to arrange several small, informal ________ for participants to gather around. a) podiums b) desks c) tables d) platforms

    5. Which of these words refers to a small, soft, often upholstered cushion used primarily as a footrest or low seat? a) hassock b) ottoman c) chaise lounge d) bench

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Original: The patient's bowel movements were collected for laboratory analysis. Rewrite using "stool":

    2. Original: The apprentice pulled up a short, backless seat to work on the intricate electronics. Rewrite using "stool":

    3. Original: For the presentation, the speaker stood on a raised platform behind the microphone. Rewrite without using "stool":

    Answer:

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. stool
    2. stool
    3. chairs
    4. pedestal

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. c) stool
    2. c) stool, e) feces
    3. b) folding stool
    4. c) tables
    5. a) hassock, b) ottoman

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. The patient's stool sample was collected for laboratory analysis.
    2. The apprentice pulled up a stool to work on the intricate electronics.
    3. For the presentation, the speaker stood on a podium behind the microphone.

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