What is term? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of term

termnoun

/təːm/
Definition & pronunciation of term

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "term." It's a bit tricky because it's a word that often gets mispronounced!

Here's a breakdown:

  • The most common and correct pronunciation is: /tɜːm/

    • "tɜːm" is the phonetic spelling. Let's break it down further:
      • "tɜː" – This part sounds like "tur" as in "turn." The "r" is a subtle rolled "r" – you don't need a strong, noticeable roll.
      • "m" – This is just the regular "m" sound.

  • A very common, but slightly less correct, pronunciation is: /tɝm/

    • This is often heard, particularly by speakers influenced by certain dialects. It’s closer to "term" as in "a period of time".

Here’s how it sounds: Think of saying "turm." Practice it aloud a few times.

Resources for Hearing it:

Key takeaway: Strive for the /tɜːm/ pronunciation. It's the standard and most widely accepted way to say "term."

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "term"?

Usage and examples with the word term in English

Let's break down how to use the word "term" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Period of Time:

  • Most Common Usage: This is the most frequent way "term" is used. It refers to a specific period of time.
    • Example: "The term of the president is four years." (Refers to a specific length of time)
    • Example: "She finished her term at university last year." (Refers to a period of study)
    • Example: "The company is going through a difficult economic term." (Referring to a business cycle)
    • Synonyms: period, duration, span, timeframe

2. In Politics & Government:

  • Legislative Term: This is a very common usage in political contexts.
    • Example: "The new parliament began its term in January."
    • Example: "The Prime Minister announced a review of government policy before the end of his term."
  • Academic Term: (Similar to above)
    • Example: "Students return for the fall term."

3. In Formal Language & Contracts:

  • Legal Term: This refers to a specific legal definition or concept.
    • Example: "The term ‘breach of contract’ is defined in section 3 of the agreement."
    • Example: "The court used the term ‘reasonable’ to describe the amount of damages.”
  • Contractual Term: A specific clause or condition within a contract.
    • Example: "The term of the lease is for five years."
    • Example: "The contract includes a non-compete term.”

4. In Education (Academic & Professional):

  • Academic Term: (Already mentioned, but important here) – the semester, quarter, or trimester.
    • Example: "We have a midterm exam at the end of the first term."
  • Job Term: The period of employment.
    • Example: “He served two terms as CEO.”

5. As a Word with a Specific Meaning (Less Common):

  • Term Paper: A lengthy assignment, usually in college.
    • Example: “I’m working on my term paper due next week.”
  • Term Limits: Restrictions on how long someone can hold an office.
    • Example: “The law imposed term limits on the mayor.”

6. More Abstract/Figurative Use:

  • Term (of a word): The meaning or definition of a word.
    • Example: "The term 'sustainable' has evolved over time." (Referring to changes in the word's meaning)
  • Term (of an argument/discussion): A specific point or stage in an argument.
    • Example: “We need to move past this term of the debate and discuss solutions.”

Tips for Using "Term" Correctly:

  • Context is Key: Pay close attention to the context to determine the meaning.
  • Formal Tone: "Term" often sounds more formal than words like "period" or "time."
  • Be Precise: Using “term” clearly helps avoid ambiguity.

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • In what kind of writing or conversation are you trying to use "term"? (e.g., academic essay, business email, casual conversation)?

Synonyms for the word term

Idioms of the word term

in the long/short/medium term
used to describe what will happen a long, short, etc. time in the future
  • Such a development seems unlikely, at least in the short term (= it will not happen for quite a long time).
  • In the longer term, children of depressed mothers are more likely to suffer from childhood depression.
  • In the long term, our efforts will pay off.

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