What is throw? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of throw

throwverb

/θrəʊ/
Definition & pronunciation of throw

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

The Correct Pronunciation:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is: thrō

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • "thr": This is where a lot of people stumble. It's not like "th" as in "thin." It’s a voiced ‘th’ sound, similar to the “th” in “this” or “that.” You need to vibrate your vocal cords. Think of it as a softer, more breathy "th."
  • "ō": This is a short “o” sound, like the “o” in “hot” or “go.” It's a rounded vowel sound. Your lips should be slightly rounded as you say it.

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "thruh": Many beginners incorrectly pronounce it this way.
  • Don't overemphasize the "th": It's a subtle sound.
  • Practice slowly: Focus on getting the “thrō” sound right. Record yourself and compare it to native speakers.

Resources to Listen:

To help me give you even more customized instruction, could you tell me:

  • Are you having trouble with a specific part of the word? (e.g., the initial "thr" sound, or the "o" sound?)

Usage and examples with the word throw in English

Let's break down how to use the word "throw" in English! It's a surprisingly versatile word with many different meanings and ways to use it. Here's a categorized breakdown:

1. Physical Action – To Hurl or Cast:

  • Basic Definition: This is the most common meaning – to propel something forward with a movement of the arm and hand.

    • “I threw the ball to my friend.”
    • “She threw a stone into the lake.”
    • “He threw the package over the fence.”

  • With a Force: “Throw” can imply a forceful movement.

    • “Don’t throw your weight around!”
    • “He threw himself against the door to get inside.”

2. Action – To Discard or Give Away:

  • To discard: To get rid of something, usually unwanted.

    • “I threw away the old newspaper.”
    • “She threw her phone into the trash.”

  • To donate or give away:

    • “They threw a party for the homeless.” (meaning they provided food and support)
    • “Let’s throw a fundraiser for the animal shelter.”

3. Verbs of Movement – To Move or Travel:

  • To throw oneself: To jump or move suddenly.

    • “She threw herself onto the sofa.”
    • “He threw himself into the project with enthusiasm.”

  • To throw a fit/tantrum: (informal) To become very angry and upset, especially a child.

    • “The toddler threw a huge tantrum when he didn't get a toy.”

4. Phrases with "Throw":

  • Throw a glance/look: To briefly look at someone or something.

    • “I threw a quick glance at the clock.”

  • Throw a party: To host a celebration.

    • “They’re throwing a party for their anniversary.”

  • Throw up: To vomit. (Note: this is a common idiom)

    • “He threw up after eating too much.”

  • Throw caution to the wind: To act recklessly, without worrying about the consequences.

    • “Let’s throw caution to the wind and go skydiving!”

  • Throw someone under the bus: To sacrifice someone else for personal gain. (Figurative – a negative meaning)

    • "He threw his colleague under the bus to get the promotion."

5. As a Verb – “To Cast” (more formal):

  • To cast (something): Often used in a more formal or artistic context.
    • “The director threw a shadow on the painting.” (meaning he created a shadow effect)
    • “They threw a spotlight on the stage.”

6. As a Verb – “To Launch”: (Especially with projectiles)

  • To launch something: To send something into the air.
    • “He threw a frisbee.”
    • “The rocket was thrown into space.”

Important Notes:

  • Pronunciation: "Throw" is pronounced /θrəʊ/ (rhymes with “toe”) in American English. In British English, it's often pronounced /trəʊ/ (slightly longer ‘t’ sound).
  • Transitive vs. Intransitive: “Throw” can be either a transitive or intransitive verb.
    • Transitive: It takes a direct object (e.g., “I threw the ball”).
    • Intransitive: It doesn't take a direct object (e.g., “He threw himself”).

Resources for More Examples:

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

  • What are you hoping to use "throw" in? (e.g., a story, a conversation, an essay?)
  • Are there any specific contexts you’re wondering about (e.g., throwing a party, throwing something away)?

Synonyms for the word throw

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