What is twice? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of twice

twiceadverb

/twʌɪs/
Definition & pronunciation of twice

The word "twice" is pronounced twah-sist.

Here's a breakdown:

  • twah: Like the word "wah" in "wah-wah"
  • sist: Like the word "sister"

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Usage and examples with the word twice in English

Let's break down how to use the word "twice" in English. It's a relatively simple word, but it has a few different ways it can be used, and understanding those nuances will make you sound more precise.

1. As a Multiplier (Most Common Use)

This is the most frequent way to use "twice." It means "two times."

  • Example: "The price of the shirt is twice as much as yesterday." (Meaning it's two times the original price.)
  • Example: "I ran twice around the track." (Meaning I ran two laps.)
  • Example: "She ate twice the amount of cake as her brother." (She ate two times as much.)

2. To Indicate a Double Amount or Quantity

"Twice" can simply show that something has been doubled.

  • Example: "He earned twice as much money this year as last year." (He earned twice the amount of money.)
  • Example: "The volume was turned up twice as loud." (It was turned up two times louder.)

3. In Phrases - Common Combinations

  • Twice as much/many/often/soon: These are very common and easy to understand.

    • "Twice as much money" – Two times the amount of money.
    • "Twice as often" – Two times as frequently.
    • "Twice as soon as" – As soon as two times (meaning within two times a short period) - This usage is less common and a bit more formal.

  • Twice around: Describes something being completed two times in a circular motion.

    • "The cyclist completed twice around the stadium."

4. Less Common Usage – Referring to a Second Occurrence

Rarely, "twice" can refer to a second time, especially in conversations. It’s often implied, though.

  • Example: "I told him twice to be quiet, but he wouldn't listen." (Meaning I said it two times.) - You could also say: “I told him to be quiet twice.”

Key Points to Remember:

  • "Twice" is typically used with numerical amounts or quantities. It doesn’t work with abstract concepts (like happiness) directly.
  • It’s a multiplier. Think of it as “two times.”

Let’s test your understanding:

Can you complete these sentences using "twice"?

  1. The recipe calls for sugar ____ as much as flour.
  2. He practiced the piano ____ every day.
  3. She visited her grandmother ____ a week.

Answers to the test:

  1. twice
  2. twice
  3. twice

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Synonyms for the word twice

Idioms of the word twice

lightning never strikes (in the same place) twice
(saying)an unusual or unpleasant event is not likely to happen in the same place or to the same people twice
    once bitten, twice shy
    (saying)after an unpleasant experience you are careful to avoid something similar
      once or twice
      a few times
      • I don't know her well, I've only met her once or twice.
      think twice about something/about doing something
      to think carefully before deciding to do something
      • You should think twice about employing someone you've never met.
      twice over
      not just once but twice
      • There was enough of the drug in her stomach to kill her twice over.

      Practice with vocabulary twice

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. The security protocol requires all employees to scan their ID cards ____ before entering the restricted area.
      2. If you fold a piece of paper in half, its thickness will become ____ its original measurement.
      3. The company holds its board meetings ____ a year to review progress and set new objectives.
      4. Please proofread your report ____ before submission to catch any lingering errors.

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

      1. The new software update failed to install correctly, so I had to attempt the process ____. a) once b) twice c) seldom d) always

      2. To maintain peak engine efficiency, it is advisable to change the oil filter ____ a year. a) once b) biannually c) every other time d) twice

      3. Employees are permitted to take a short break ____ during their eight-hour shift. a) once b) twice c) always d) never

      4. The project deadline has been extended, giving us ____ the amount of time we initially had. a) half b) double c) triple d) the same

      5. It's important to ____ check your calculations before submitting the financial report. a) thoroughly b) barely c) superficially d) once

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. The security team checks the perimeter two times every shift.
      2. The company's profits increased by a factor of two this quarter.
      3. Please review the legal document multiple times before signing it.

      Answer:

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. twice
      2. twice
      3. biannually
      4. thoroughly

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

      1. b) twice
      2. b) biannually, d) twice
      3. b) twice
      4. b) double
      5. a) thoroughly

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. The security team checks the perimeter twice every shift.
      2. The company's profits doubled this quarter.
      3. Please review the legal document repeatedly before signing it.

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