What is sudden? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of sudden

suddenadjective

/ˈsʌdn/
Definition & pronunciation of sudden

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "sudden" in English. It can be a tricky one for some learners!

Here's a breakdown:

  • sūd-ən

Let's look at each part:

  • sūd: This part sounds like "sood" - like the word "stood" but with a softer "d" sound. It's a slightly elongated "oo" sound.
  • -ən: This is a short, unstressed syllable. It sounds like "uhn" - a very quick, breathy "uh" sound, almost like you're swallowing.

Putting it together: Say it smoothly, linking the two parts together. Think of it as "sood-uhn."

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't overemphasize the 's': It's a quiet 's' sound.
  • The 'd' in 'sud' is softer: It’s not a hard 'd' like in 'dog'.
  • The 'uhn' is brief: Don’t hold the “uh” sound too long.

Resources to help you hear it:

  • Google Search: Type "how to pronounce sudden" into Google and click the audio icon.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/sudden/ - This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers from different regions.

Would you like me to:

  • Break down any particular part of the pronunciation?
  • Give you some example sentences to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word sudden in English

Let's break down how to use the word "sudden" in English. It's a versatile word that describes something happening quickly and unexpectedly.

1. Basic Meaning:

  • Sudden: Meaning happening quickly and without warning; abrupt.

2. How to Use "Sudden" – Different Ways:

  • As an Adjective (describing a thing): This is the most common use.
    • Example: “He experienced a sudden pain in his chest.” (describes the pain)
    • Example: “The weather changed suddenly – from sunshine to rain.” (describes the change)
    • Example: “I noticed a sudden drop in my bank account.” (describes the drop)
  • As Part of a Phrase: “Sudden realization” is a common idiom.
    • Example: “I had a sudden realization that I’d forgotten my keys.”
  • To Describe an Action:
    • Example: “She made a sudden movement and tripped.” (describes the action)
    • Example: “The car braked suddenly.” (describes the action)

3. Common Phrases Using "Sudden":

  • Sudden change: A quick and unexpected change.
  • Sudden onset: The beginning of something quickly and unexpectedly (often used with illnesses).
  • Sudden opportunity: A chance that appears quickly and unexpectedly.
  • Sudden silence: A quiet that comes unexpectedly.
  • Sudden thought: A thought that pops into your mind quickly.

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Abrupt: (Often implies a harsher or less gentle change)
  • Unexpected: (Simply means not anticipated)
  • Rapid: (Emphasizes speed)
  • Immediate: (Happening without delay)
  • Unexpected: (Similar to unexpected)
  • Quick: (A general term for fast)

5. Examples in Sentences (Showing different contexts):

  • “The news of his promotion was a sudden surprise to everyone.” (Describing a reaction to unexpected news)
  • “The sudden snowstorm caused major traffic delays.” (Describing a weather event)
  • “She had a sudden urge to dance.” (Describing a spontaneous feeling)
  • “He made a sudden decision to quit his job.” (Describing an action)
  • “The museum displayed a sudden collection of ancient artifacts.” (Describing the arrival of something new)

6. Tips for Using "Sudden" Effectively:

  • Consider the context: “Sudden” implies that something wasn’t anticipated. Think about whether the situation truly lacks warning.
  • Use it for emphasis: It adds a sense of surprise or urgency.

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

  • Are you trying to use "sudden" in a particular sentence or situation?
  • What kind of writing are you doing (e.g., creative writing, academic essay, everyday conversation)?

Synonyms for the word sudden

Idioms of the word sudden

all of a sudden
quickly and unexpectedly
  • All of a sudden someone grabbed me around the neck.

Practice with vocabulary sudden

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The CEO's resignation led to a ____ change in the company's stock value.
  2. During the presentation, a ____ technical malfunction disrupted the flow of information.
  3. The research indicated a ____ increase in consumer spending during the holiday season.
  4. Despite careful planning, an ____ shift in market demand forced a strategy reconsideration.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The project timeline needed to be revised due to a ____ increase in material costs. a) gradual b) sudden c) consistent d) predictable

  2. Which of the following words can describe a sharp and unexpected change in market trends? (Select all that apply) a) abrupt b) anticipated c) sudden d) gradual

  3. The board was concerned about a ____ drop in quarterly profits, which analysts had not predicted. a) foreseen b) gradual c) anticipated d) sudden

  4. When analyzing complex data, it is crucial to remain ____ and avoid personal biases. (Select all that apply) a) subjective b) objective c) prejudiced d) impartial

  5. Effective team collaboration often relies on ____ feedback mechanisms to ensure continuous improvement. a) vague b) ambiguous c) constructive d) destructive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The unexpected and quick drop in stock prices caused widespread panic among investors. (Rewrite using "sudden")
  2. There was no warning before the system went offline, causing significant operational delays. (Rewrite using "sudden" or a related word form)
  3. The meeting ended very quickly and without any preparation, leaving several agenda items unresolved. (Rewrite, but do NOT use "sudden" or any of its forms)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. sudden
  2. sudden
  3. significant
  4. unforeseen

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) sudden
  2. a) abrupt, c) sudden
  3. d) sudden
  4. b) objective, d) impartial
  5. c) constructive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The sudden drop in stock prices caused widespread panic among investors.
  2. The suddenness of the system going offline caused significant operational delays.
  3. The meeting ended abruptly, leaving several agenda items unresolved.

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