What is thong? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of thong

thongnoun

/θɒŋ//θɔːŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of thong

Okay, this is a tricky one! The pronunciation of "thong" varies quite a bit depending on where you are and what you're referring to. Here's a breakdown:

1. Underwear (Most Common American Pronunciation):

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /tɒŋ/
  • How it sounds: It's pronounced like the Thai word "tong" – a short, rising tone. It's a single syllable. Think of it as a quick "tong" sound.
  • Breakdown:
    • "th": Pronounced as a "t" sound (like in "top").
    • "ong": Pronounced as "tong" with a slightly rising tone (as if you're asking a question).

2. A Rope or Band (British Pronunciation - Less Common in the US):

  • IPA: /θɒŋ/
  • How it sounds: This is closer to the "th" sound like in "thin." It's a slightly longer, more drawn-out "thong" sound.
  • Breakdown:
    • "th": Pronounced as "th" (like in "think").
    • "ong": Pronounced as "tong" with a slightly rising tone.

Here's a helpful way to hear it:

Key takeaway: When you're talking about underwear, go for the short, rising "tong" sound. When you're referring to a rope or band, it's a properly pronounced "thong."

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

  • What are you referring to when you say "thong"? (underwear or a rope/band?)

Usage and examples with the word thong in English

Let's break down how to use the word "thong" in English. It has a few distinct meanings, and context is crucial for understanding which one is intended.

1. The Underwear (Most Common Usage):

  • What it is: A thong is a type of underwear that provides minimal coverage between the buttocks. It's essentially a strip of fabric (usually elastic) that sits between the labia and doesn't have side coverage.
  • How to use it:
    • Describing clothing: "She was wearing a black lace thong."
    • Referring to a style: "I prefer a seamless thong for comfort."
    • Casual conversation: “I’m looking for a new thong.”
  • Important Note: This is a potentially sensitive topic. Use it carefully, and be aware of your audience. It’s generally best to avoid using it in formal writing or situations.

2. A Cord or Strap (Less Common, More Formal):

  • What it is: A thong can be a braided or knotted piece of cord or fabric used to fasten or secure something. This is a much older and less frequent usage.
  • Examples:
    • Decorative: "The doorway was hung with a woven bamboo thong." (Referring to a decorative cord)
    • Practical: "He used a thong to tie his shoes." (Referring to a simple shoelace-like cord)
    • Ancient/Historical: "The warriors wore leather thongs to secure their sandals."

3. A Kind of Musical Instrument (Rare):

  • What it is: In Southeast Asia (particularly Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar), a "thong" refers to a type of spiked mace or club used in traditional music and dance. It's a striking instrument.
  • Example: “The percussionist played a rapid series of beats on the thongs.” (This is very specific and requires context.)

Here's a table to summarize:

Meaning Definition Example
Underwear A type of minimal-coverage underwear "She wore a silky pink thong."
Cord/Strap A braided or knotted cord/strap "He used a thong to hang the picture."
Musical Instrument A spiked mace/club used in Southeast Asia “The dancers struck the thongs with sticks.”

Important Considerations:

  • Context is King: The meaning of "thong" is almost entirely determined by the context in which it’s used.
  • Sensitivity: As mentioned earlier, the underwear meaning can be considered intimate and potentially embarrassing.
  • Formal vs. Informal: Using "thong" to describe underwear is almost exclusively informal.

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

  • In what context are you trying to use the word "thong"? (e.g., Are you writing a story, talking to a friend, describing clothing, etc.?)

Synonyms for the word thong

Practice with vocabulary thong

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. For her tropical getaway, Sarah packed a comfortable pair of _________ sandals, which were easy to slip on and off by the pool.
  2. The latest collection of minimalist swimwear features a _________ bikini bottom, designed to provide minimal tan lines.
  3. He opted for classic leather _________ for the business meeting, preferring formal enclosed footwear to casual styles.
  4. The artisan used a sturdy leather _________ to secure the rolled blueprint, ensuring it remained tightly bound during transport.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of these footwear types typically features a strap that passes between the wearer's first two toes? A) Loafers B) Moccasins C) Espadrilles D) Thong sandals E) Flip-flops

  2. In fashion design, which swimwear style is specifically known for its very minimal coverage at the back? A) High-waisted brief B) Thong C) Boyshort D) Full coverage bikini bottom

  3. A thin, flexible strip of material, often leather, used for lacing, fastening, or as a whip, is generally referred to as a: A) Ribbon B) Thong C) Corduroy D) Sash

  4. Which type of casual, open-toed footwear is commonly worn at the beach or around the pool, typically made of rubber or plastic? A) Boots B) Sneakers C) Slippers D) Flip-flops E) High heels

  5. For maximum support and comprehensive coverage during strenuous athletic activities, which type of underwear would be the most practical choice? A) Thong B) G-string C) Briefs D) Bikini bottom

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The comfortable summer footwear had a single strap that went between the first two toes. (Rewrite using "thong")
  2. The designer presented a swimsuit bottom with a very small amount of material covering the rear. (Rewrite using "thong")
  3. The artisan used a thin strip of leather to secure the rolled parchment. (Rewrite without using "thong")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. For her tropical getaway, Sarah packed a comfortable pair of thong sandals, which were easy to slip on and off by the pool.
  2. The latest collection of minimalist swimwear features a thong bikini bottom, designed to provide minimal tan lines.
  3. He opted for classic leather loafers for the business meeting, preferring formal enclosed footwear to casual styles.
  4. The artisan used a sturdy leather strap to secure the rolled blueprint, ensuring it remained tightly bound during transport.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. D) Thong sandals, E) Flip-flops
  2. B) Thong
  3. B) Thong
  4. D) Flip-flops
  5. C) Briefs

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The comfortable summer footwear consisted of thong sandals, which featured a strap between the first two toes.
  2. The designer presented a swimsuit with a thong bottom, offering a very small amount of material covering the rear.
  3. The artisan used a thin leather cord to secure the rolled parchment.

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