What is sustenance? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of sustenance

sustenancenoun

/ˈsʌstənəns//ˈsʌstənəns/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "sustenance." It's a tricky word! Here's a breakdown of the sounds and a few tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (Closest to how a native speaker would say it):

/səˈstenəns/

Let's break that down:

  • sə - like the "su" in "sun," but very short and quickly followed by a schwa (the "uh" sound).
  • ˈsten - This is the stressed syllable. "sten" is pronounced like "sten" in "stench." The stress is on this syllable.
  • ə - Another schwa sound, like the "a" in "about."
  • ns – pronounced like "nns" - like the ending of "months".

2. A More Detailed Explanation & Tips:

  • Start with "su": Say "su" quickly and lightly.
  • The "sten" part: This is the key. It sounds like "sten" (as in, a bad smell). Don’t over-emphasize the “t” – it’s a soft "t."
  • The schwa ("ə") sound: This is a very brief, relaxed "uh" sound. It's a default vowel sound in English.
  • The "ns" sound: say “nns”.

3. Putting it Together (Slowly at First):

Try saying it slowly: "suh-STEN-uh-nsss" (emphasize "STEN").

4. Listen to Examples:

The absolute best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:

Important Note: The "s" at the beginning of the word doesn't have a strong sound. It's almost silent before the "u." Don't pronounce a distinct "z" sound.

Resources that help with Schwa Sounds:

  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce the schwa sound" - there are many helpful videos illustrating this subtle vowel.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a breakdown of how to break the word down into smaller sounds?

Usage and examples with the word sustenance in English

Let's break down how to use the word "sustenance." It's a beautiful, often overlooked word with a rich history. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Meaning:

  • Core Definition: "Sustenance" refers to the nourishment or food necessary to maintain life. It's about what keeps you going – literally and figuratively.
  • Broader Meaning: It can also extend to anything that provides support, encouragement, or strength, beyond just food. Think of it as the fuel for your spirit.

2. Parts of Speech:

  • Noun: This is the most common usage. It's a singular noun.
    • Example: "The nomadic tribes relied on scarce sustenance found in the desert."
  • Verb (rare): “Sustain” is the verb form of this root. “Sustenance” is derived from "sustain." However, using "sustenance" as a verb is unusual and generally sounds formal and a bit archaic.

3. Examples in Context (with explanations):

  • Literal (Food): “After days adrift at sea, the sailors were grateful for any sustenance they could find – a piece of fruit, a few crackers.” (Here, it’s clearly about food.)
  • Figurative (Emotional Support): “Her friends provided the sustenance she needed to cope with the loss of her job.” (Here, it means emotional support and strength.)
  • Figurative (Spirituality/Belief): "For many religious believers, faith provides the sustenance of their souls." (Here, it refers to spiritual nourishment.)
  • Figurative (Resources/Support): "The small community depended on local businesses for sustenance – their jobs, their supplies, and their connection to the wider world.” (Meaning reliance or support)
  • Historical/Literary: “In the 17th century, landowners provided their laborers with basic sustenance in exchange for their labor.” (Refers to a period when food was the primary form of payment.)

4. Synonyms (to help you vary your language):

  • Food: (when referring to literal nourishment)
  • Nourishment
  • Provision
  • Supply
  • Support
  • Encouragement
  • Strength
  • Maintenance

5. When to Use It:

  • Formal Writing: "Sustenance" is often found in academic writing, historical accounts, and literature. It lends a more sophisticated and evocative tone.
  • When Emphasizing Reliance: Use it when you want to highlight a dependence on something—whether it’s food, support, or belief.
  • To Add Depth: It can elevate your writing or speech beyond simply stating "food" or "support."

6. Things to Avoid:

  • Overuse: It’s a relatively uncommon word. Using it too often can sound pretentious or stilted.
  • Inappropriate Context: Don't use it in casual conversation unless you're deliberately trying to be poetic or formal.

Resources for Further Exploration:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of "sustenance" in specific contexts?
  • Help you practice using the word in a sentence?
  • Explain how it relates to other words (like "sustain")?

Synonyms for the word sustenance

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