What is stout? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of stout

stoutadjective

/staʊt//staʊt/

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

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

stawt

Here's how to break it down phonetically:

  • st - Like the "st" in "stop" or "street" (a short, sharp 't' sound)
  • out - Pronounced like the word "out" – a clear, short "uh" sound.

Putting it together: stawt

Important Notes & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "stoot." This is a very common mistake! The "oo" sound is incorrect.
  • The "t" at the end is pronounced. It’s not a silent letter.

Resources for Hearing It:

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

  • Where are you from? (Some regional accents can influence pronunciation.)

Usage and examples with the word stout in English

Let's break down how to use the word "stout" in English. It's a word with a fascinating history and nuanced meanings! Here's a detailed guide:

1. Primary Meaning: Physically Robust & Stocky

  • What it means: This is the most common usage. "Stout" describes a person who is solidly built, with a broad chest and a thick frame. They’re not necessarily overweight, but they have a substantial and well-built appearance. Think of a sturdy oak tree – strong and rooted.
  • Examples:
    • “He was a stout farmer, built for hard work.”
    • “The stout sailor hauled the ropes with ease.”
    • “She had a stout build, perfect for hiking.”
  • Synonyms: Strong, stocky, hefty, solid, burly, robust.

2. Secondary Meaning: Firm & Full-Bodied (Especially Food)

  • What it means: "Stout" can describe the texture and richness of food and drink. It implies a dense, full-flavored character. It’s often used for beers, ales, and sauces.
  • Examples:
    • “The stout gravy was thick and flavorful.”
    • “This stout chocolate cake is incredibly rich.”
    • “He enjoyed a pint of stout after a long day.”
  • Synonyms: Full-bodied, rich, dense, hearty, substantial.

3. Older/Archaic Meaning: Determined or Resolute (Less Common Now)

  • What it meant: Historically, “stout” could also describe a person's character – implying they were firm, resolute, and not easily swayed. This usage is much less common today.
  • Example (historical): "He was a stout man, unwavering in his beliefs."

Important Considerations & Nuances:

  • Positive Connotation: Generally, "stout" is a positive descriptor when referring to a person's physical build. It suggests strength and durability.
  • Potential for Misinterpretation: Be mindful that "stout" can sometimes be perceived as slightly negative, particularly when describing a person. It might imply a lack of elegance or slimness. If you're concerned about how someone might interpret it, consider using a more neutral term like "well-built" or “strong.”
  • Regional Variations: The term "stout" is more prevalent in certain English-speaking regions (like the UK and Ireland) than others.

Here's a table to summarize:

Meaning Description Example
Physical Build Solidly built, robust, stocky "He was a stout blacksmith."
Food/Drink Dense, rich, full-flavored "The stout ale had a deep, dark color."
Character (Rare) Determined, resolute, firm (Historical) “A stout defender.”

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

  • In what context are you trying to use the word "stout"? (e.g., describing a person, describing food, writing a story?)

Synonyms for the word stout

Practice with vocabulary stout

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Despite facing numerous challenges, her _____ resolve never faltered, driving the project to a successful conclusion.
  2. The company's new security measures ensured a _____ defense against potential cyber threats.
  3. He was widely respected for his _____ approach to problem-solving, always considering every angle before making a decision.
  4. The antique furniture, crafted from solid oak, had a remarkably _____ frame that had withstood generations of use.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following terms best describes a person of somewhat heavy build, yet often strong and hardy? a) emaciated b) svelte c) stout d) gaunt

  2. To successfully navigate the complex regulatory environment, the legal team needed to demonstrate a _____ commitment to ethical practices. (Select all that apply) a) fickle b) steadfast c) unwavering d) stout e) tentative

  3. When selecting materials for the foundation of a skyscraper in a seismic zone, engineers would prioritize those that are: (Select all that apply) a) fragile b) brittle c) sturdy d) pliable e) stout

  4. Despite the overwhelming opposition, the CEO maintained her _____ stance on the merger, refusing to back down. a) hesitant b) resolute c) vacillating d) wavering

  5. The team must _____ a new strategy to penetrate the highly competitive market. a) device b) devise c) digress d) diverge

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The veteran diplomat demonstrated remarkable courage and unyielding determination during the tense negotiations. (Rewrite using a form of "stout")
  2. The ancient fortress, with its thick walls and robust structure, had withstood countless sieges over the centuries. (Rewrite using a form of "stout")
  3. The project manager needed to find a very strong and resilient solution to handle the unexpected system overload. (Rewrite using a suitable replacement word, but not "stout")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Despite facing numerous challenges, her stout resolve never faltered, driving the project to a successful conclusion.
  2. The company's new security measures ensured a stout defense against potential cyber threats.
  3. He was widely respected for his thorough approach to problem-solving, always considering every angle before making a decision.
  4. The antique furniture, crafted from solid oak, had a remarkably sturdy frame that had withstood generations of use.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) stout
  2. b) steadfast, c) unwavering, d) stout
  3. c) sturdy, e) stout
  4. b) resolute
  5. b) devise

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The veteran diplomat demonstrated remarkably stout courage and unyielding determination during the tense negotiations. (or: The veteran diplomat showed a stout heart and unyielding determination...)
  2. The ancient fortress, with its stout walls and robust structure, had withstood countless sieges over the centuries.
  3. The project manager needed to find a very robust solution to handle the unexpected system overload. (Other acceptable answers include: resilient, durable, tough)

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