What is suddenly? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of suddenly

suddenlyadverb

/ˈsʌdənli/
Definition & pronunciation of suddenly

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "suddenly" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown, focusing on the key sounds:

1. "Sud" – Sounds like "süd" (like the German word for south)

  • S: As in "sun" – a quick, sharp sound.
  • U: As in "put" – a short, rounded vowel.
  • D: As in "dog" – a clear, brief "d" sound.

2. "Den" – Sounds like "den" (like a shield)

  • D: As in "dog" – a clear, brief "d" sound.
  • En: This is the tricky part! It's a diphthong, meaning it's a combination of two vowel sounds. It sounds like a short "eh" sound followed by a very quick 'n' sound. Think of it as a very short, almost gliding "ehn". Don’t over-emphasize the ‘n’ – it's almost silent.

3. “Ly” - Sounds like “lee”

  • L: As in “light”
  • Y: As in “yes” – a short, bright “i” sound.

Putting it all together:

  • süd-den-lee

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: “süd-”.
  • Don’t over-emphasize the “n” in “den”. It’s almost a very quick glide.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "suddenly" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/suddenly/) – A website with pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce suddenly" on YouTube.

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

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning English as a second language?
  • What part of the pronunciation is giving you the most trouble?

Usage and examples with the word suddenly in English

Let's break down how to use the word "suddenly" effectively in English. It's a versatile word that indicates something happens unexpectedly and quickly.

1. Basic Meaning & Usage:

  • Definition: "Suddenly" means unexpectedly, abruptly, or without warning. It describes something that happens quickly and surprises you.

  • Common Constructions:

    • "Suddenly, [verb phrase]": This is the most common way to use it.

      • Example: "Suddenly, the lights went out."
      • Example: "Suddenly, she burst into tears."
      • Example: "Suddenly, he realized he’d forgotten his keys."

    • "Suddenly [noun]": You can use it as an adverb modifying a noun.

      • Example: "It was a sudden downpour."
      • Example: “He had a sudden thought.”

2. Different Ways to Use "Suddenly" (with examples):

  • To describe a surprise event:

    • “Suddenly, a dog ran across the street.”
    • “Suddenly, the doorbell rang.”
    • “Suddenly, I heard a loud noise.”

  • To indicate a change in action or situation:

    • “Suddenly, the rain stopped.”
    • “Suddenly, she was alone.”
    • “Suddenly, he began to laugh.”

  • To describe a realization or understanding that comes quickly:

    • “Suddenly, it all made sense.”
    • “Suddenly, I understood her feelings.”

  • To introduce a new development or shift in a story: (Common in narratives)

    • "Suddenly, a shadowy figure appeared in the doorway.”
    • “Suddenly, the situation took a turn for the worse.”

3. Important Considerations & Alternatives:

  • Emphasis: "Suddenly" emphasizes the unexpectedness of the event. If you just want to say something happened quickly, other words might be better.

  • Alternatives (depending on the nuance you want):

    • Immediately: Suggests something happening instantly. (“The alarm immediately blared.”)
    • Abruptly: Similar to suddenly, but can suggest an unpleasant or jarring change. (“He abruptly turned and walked away.”)
    • Unexpectedly: Similar to suddenly, but more formal. (“It happened unexpectedly.”)
    • All of a sudden: (This is often used interchangeably with “suddenly,” but “all of a sudden” sounds a bit more conversational. "All of a sudden, the music started.")
    • Instantly: Even more emphatic than 'immediately'. ("The phone rang instantly.")

4. Examples in Sentences – Putting it Together:

  • "Suddenly, the wind picked up, and the trees began to sway."
  • "Suddenly, she realized she hadn’t locked the door."
  • "Suddenly, the crowd erupted in cheers."
  • “Suddenly, he felt a sharp pain in his chest.”
  • “Suddenly, a memory flashed through his mind.”

To help me tailor this information even further, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you using "suddenly" in? (e.g., creative writing, academic writing, everyday conversation?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word suddenly

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