What is tape? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of tape

tapenoun

/teɪp/
Definition & pronunciation of tape

The word "tape" is pronounced like this:

tape

It rhymes with "cape" (as in a coat) and "shape."

Here's a breakdown:

  • ta - like the beginning of "tan"
  • pe - like the end of "pen"

You can hear it pronounced here: https://www.merriam-webster.com/audio/pronunciation/tape/tape

Usage and examples with the word tape in English

Let's break down how to use the word "tape" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word! Here's a breakdown of its different meanings and how to use them, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Physical Material (Most Common)

  • Definition: A narrow strip of flexible material (usually plastic or cloth) used for sticking things together, securing, protecting, or marking.
  • Examples:
    • "I need some tape to fix this broken box." (Referring to an adhesive tape)
    • "She used tape to wrap the splint around her ankle." (Medical tape)
    • "He wrapped the fragile ornaments in tape before putting them in the box." (Protective tape)
    • "I used masking tape to hold the poster to the wall." (A specific type of tape)

2. Audio Recording & Playback

  • Definition: A method of recording and playing back sound.
  • Types:
    • Audio Tape: The classic reel-to-reel or cassette tape. Less common now but still used for archiving.
    • Magnetic Tape: Generally refers to the medium used for audio recording.
    • Cassette Tape: A smaller, more portable form of audio tape.
    • VHS Tape: Video Home System - used for analog video recording.
    • Audio Tape (Modern): Digital audio files (like MP3s) are often referred to as “audio tapes” in a figurative sense – thinking of them as a way to store sound.
  • Examples:
    • "My dad still has a collection of old cassette tapes."
    • "I listened to a tape of her graduation speech."
    • "The recording was on a VHS tape."
    • "He's been digitizing his vinyl records and turning them into audio tapes."

3. As a Verb (To Apply Tape)

  • Definition: To adhere or secure something with tape.
  • Examples:
    • "Please tape this envelope securely."
    • "She taped the picture to the wall."
    • “He taped his shoes together to keep them from coming untied."

4. Figurative Uses (Less Common)

  • Tape (a story/memory): To tell a story or recount a memory, often in detail.
    • "She taped the whole experience in her mind." – meaning she vividly remembered it.
  • Tape (in a test/exam): To submit a test or exam.
    • "I need to tape my midterm exam to the teacher."

Here's a table summarizing the different meanings:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Noun Adhesive material "Use tape to seal the package."
Noun Audio recording medium "He listened to a cassette tape."
Verb To apply tape "Tape the lid onto the jar."
Figurative To recount a memory/story "She taped the trip to Italy."

Tips for Using "Tape" Correctly:

  • Be specific: When referring to audio tapes, it's helpful to clarify the type (cassette, VHS, etc.) if it's relevant.
  • Context is key: The meaning of "tape" will always be clear from the surrounding words.

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

  • What are you trying to use the word "tape" in? (e.g., writing a story, having a conversation, a school assignment?)

Synonyms for the word tape

Practice with vocabulary tape

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. To secure the loose wiring temporarily, the technician applied electrical _____ around the exposed connections.
  2. The confidential report was placed in a secure _____ and sealed before being dispatched.
  3. For future reference, the team decided to _____ the client interview, focusing on key discussion points.
  4. The antique vase required a specialized _____ to repair the delicate porcelain fractures without leaving visible marks.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (select all that apply)

  1. Which of the following items could be used to attach a schedule to a whiteboard in an office setting? a) string b) tape c) staple d) thumbtack
  2. What might a journalist use to capture and preserve an important audio statement during an on-site visit? a) a notepad b) audio tape c) a digital voice recorder d) a traditional typewriter
  3. The project manager needed to _____ the edges of the prototype to prevent fraying and ensure structural integrity. a) bond b) weld c) tape d) fasten
  4. Which term best describes the act of converting spoken language into written text? a) illustrate b) transcribe c) summarize d) articulate
  5. Which of these materials is typically employed for sealing large cardboard boxes for shipment? a) elastic bands b) plastic wrap c) packing film d) adhesive strip

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. They used a strong adhesive to hold the temporary signage in place during the event. Rewrite the sentence using a form of "tape":
  2. The witness's full confession was meticulously recorded on an analog medium. Rewrite the sentence using a form of "tape":
  3. Please record the minutes of this strategic planning session for the official records. Rewrite the sentence, without using "tape" or its related forms:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. tape
  2. folder (or envelope/sleeve)
  3. tape
  4. adhesive (or glue/sealant)

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) tape, d) thumbtack
  2. b) audio tape, c) a digital voice recorder
  3. a) bond, c) tape, d) fasten
  4. b) transcribe
  5. c) packing film, d) adhesive strip

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. They used strong tape to hold the temporary signage in place during the event.
  2. The witness's full confession was meticulously recorded on magnetic tape.
  3. Please document the minutes of this strategic planning session for the official records.

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