What is suppose? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of suppose

supposeverb

/səˈpəʊz/
Definition & pronunciation of suppose

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

1. The Core Sound:

  • "Sup": This is the most important part. It's pronounced like "sup" as in "sup with this?" – it’s a short, quick "uh" sound followed by a "p." Think of it as a very casual, relaxed "uh" sound.

2. The Rest of the Word:

  • "Pose": This part is pronounced like "pohz." It rhymes with "rose" or "hose." It’s a clear, "oh" sound followed by a "z" sound (like the end of "buzz").

3. Putting it Together:

Combine those two parts: "Sup-pohz"

Here's a phonetic breakdown (using a simplified system):

  • /sʌpˈpoʊz/

    • sʌp - (This represents the "sup" part) – short “uh” sound followed by "p"
    • ˈpoʊz - (This represents the "pose" part) – "oh" followed by "z"

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don’t stress the "supp": The "supp" part is almost gliding into the "pose" part.
  • Shorten the "oh" in "pose": Make it a quick, bright "oh" sound.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get the rhythm and intonation is to hear it in context. You can find examples on:

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Usage and examples with the word suppose in English

Let's break down how to use the word "suppose" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings and ways to incorporate it into your speech and writing.

1. As a Question Asking for a Guess or Assumption:

This is the most common usage. “Suppose” introduces a tentative idea or guess. It’s like saying, "Let’s imagine..." or "What if...?"

  • Example: "Suppose it rains tomorrow. Should we take an umbrella?" (Here, you're asking for a possible scenario and then proposing a related action.)
  • Example: "Suppose he's telling the truth. Would you believe him?" (You’re presenting a hypothetical and asking for a reaction based on that assumption.)
  • Example: "Suppose we started a charity to help the homeless?" (A suggestion based on a hypothetical situation.)

2. As a Modal Verb (Expressing Possibility or Speculation – Similar to “if”):

When "suppose" acts as a modal verb, it expresses a weaker degree of possibility than "if." It suggests something might be the case, but you're not entirely sure. It often implies a degree of doubt.

  • Example: "Suppose you were me, how would you feel?" (Instead of: "If you were me...") – This is a softer, less direct way of asking about someone's feelings.
  • Example: "Suppose he decided to quit his job?" (You're pondering a possibility, not stating a certainty.)
  • Example: "Suppose you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?" (Again, suggesting a possibility rather than a definite fact.)

3. "Suppose" followed by "we" or "I" (as a suggestion or proposal):

This construction is used to frame a suggestion or proposal in a tentative way. It's a more polite or less assertive way of making a suggestion than simply saying “Let’s…”

  • Example: "Suppose we try a different approach?" (A gentle suggestion)
  • Example: "Suppose I offered to help you with that?" (Offering assistance with a hesitant tone)
  • Example: "Suppose we order pizza tonight?" (A casual proposal)

Key Differences & Nuances:

  • "If" vs. "Suppose": "If" typically expresses a condition – something will happen if another thing occurs. "Suppose" introduces a hypothetical and explores the consequences of that hypothetical.

  • "If" is more direct: "If it rains, we’ll stay inside." Clear and definitive.

  • "Suppose" is more exploratory: "Suppose it rains, what will we do instead?" Invites further discussion.

Here's a table summarizing the uses:

Usage Meaning Example
Question for a guess Let's imagine…; What if…? "Suppose we go to the beach this weekend?"
Modal Verb Possibility; Speculation "Suppose he’s innocent?"
“Suppose we…” Tentative suggestion “Suppose we start a book club?”

Tips for Using "Suppose" Effectively:

  • Context is Key: Pay attention to the situation when you're using "suppose." It’s best suited for discussions, brainstorming, and exploring possibilities.

  • Tone: "Suppose" often carries a tone of curiosity, thoughtfulness, or gentle suggestion.

  • Don’t overuse it: While useful, relying too heavily on "suppose" can make your speech or writing seem hesitant or uncertain.

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Synonyms for the word suppose

Idioms of the word suppose

be supposed to do/be something
to be expected or required to do/be something according to a rule, a custom, an arrangement, etc.
  • What am I supposed to do?
  • You're supposed to buy a ticket, but not many people do.
  • I thought we were supposed to be paid today.
  • The engine doesn't sound like it's supposed to.
  • You were supposed to be here an hour ago!
  • Oops—that wasn't supposed to happen.
  • How was I supposed to know you were waiting for me?
  • ‘Yes and no.’ ‘What is that supposed to mean?’ (= showing that you are annoyed)
to be generally believed or expected to be/do something
  • I haven't seen it myself, but it's supposed to be a great movie.
  • This combination of qualities is generally supposed to be extremely rare.
  • She's supposed to have had hundreds of lovers.
not be supposed to do something
to not be allowed to do something
  • You're not supposed to walk on the grass.

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