What is voice? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of voice

voicenoun

/vɔɪs/
Definition & pronunciation of voice

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "voice" in English. Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • ˈvɔɪs (Stress is on the first syllable)

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈv – This is a short, quick "v" sound, like in "vet."
  • ɔɪ – This is a diphthong (a gliding sound). It's described a few ways:
    • Imagine saying "oy" as in "boy," but shortening it slightly. It's a blend of the vowel sounds in "oy" and "i." It's often described as a slightly rounded 'oi' sound.
    • Think of it like "oy" as in "toy," but a little more closed and less drawn-out.
  • s – A soft, quick "s" sound, as in "sun."

British English Pronunciation:

  • voɪs (Stress on the first syllable, similar to American English.)
  • The “oi” is pronounced more like the “i” in “kite.” It’s a shorter, simpler vowel sound.

Here's a helpful breakdown of sounds:

  • v: as in "vet"
  • oi: This is the tricky part! It's almost like saying “oy” very quickly and then closing your mouth slightly.

Resources to Help You Hear It:

Tips for Practicing:

  1. Slow Down: Don't rush! Focus on getting the vowel sound “ɔɪ” correct.
  2. Record Yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to the recordings from the dictionaries.
  3. Isolate the Sound: Practice just the “ɔɪ” sound first, then add the "v" and the "s."
  4. Repeat, Repeat, Repeat: Consistent practice is key!

Do you want me to:

  • Generate a phonetic transcription?
  • Give you a different way to think about the sound?

Usage and examples with the word voice in English

Let's break down how to use the word "voice" in English. It's a remarkably versatile word with many different meanings and applications. Here's a comprehensive guide, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Sound (Most Common)

  • Definition: The sound produced by a person's vocal cords.
  • Examples:
    • "She has a beautiful voice."
    • "The singer's voice was powerful and emotive."
    • "He cleared his throat before speaking."
    • "The radio played a recording of her voice."

2. As a Manner of Speaking (Style)

  • Definition: How someone speaks – their tone, rhythm, and word choice.
  • Examples:
    • "He has a calm voice." (Meaning he speaks quietly and thoughtfully)
    • "She has a commanding voice." (Meaning she speaks with authority and confidence)
    • "He used a sarcastic voice when he said that."
    • “Her voice is very gentle."
    • "The politician's voice was filled with passion."

3. As a Person's Expression (Ideas and Opinions)

  • Definition: Represents a person's opinions, beliefs, or feelings. It's about what someone says and what it means.
  • Examples:
    • "Her voice is a powerful advocate for environmental protection." (She speaks out on this issue).
    • "His voice is heard in the student government." (He’s actively involved and makes his opinions known).
    • "The community needs to listen to the voices of the marginalized." (Acknowledging and valuing different perspectives).
    • "The whistleblower’s voice exposed corruption." (Someone came forward with information).

4. As a Channel of Communication

  • Definition: A means of conveying information or expressing something.
  • Examples:
    • "The internet has given a voice to countless individuals." (Providing a platform for people to share their thoughts).
    • "Social media is a powerful voice for social change."
    • “Writing is my voice.” (Artistic expression)

5. As a Part of a Musical Instrument

  • Definition: The vibrating part of an instrument that produces sound.
  • Examples:
    • "The guitar has a rich voice."
    • "The violin has a delicate voice."

6. "Voice" as a Noun (Referring to the act of speaking)

  • Definition: The act of speaking; the sound produced by speaking.
  • Examples:
    • "He made his voice heard." (Meaning he expressed his opinion forcefully).
    • "The voice of the crowd was overwhelmingly positive."

7. Phrases with “Voice”

  • Find one’s voice: To develop confidence in expressing your opinions.
  • Give voice to: To express or articulate something. (e.g., “Give voice to your concerns.”)
  • Lost voice: (Figurative) Feeling unable to express yourself.
  • A voice of reason: Someone who offers sensible advice.
  • Voice of authority: Someone with expertise or power who speaks on a subject.

Tips for Using “Voice” Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of “voice” depends heavily on the surrounding words.
  • Pay attention to the verb: Often, “voice” will be part of a verb phrase (e.g., “he voiced his opinion,” “she has a beautiful voice”).
  • Consider the tone: Think about the feeling you want to convey when using "voice." Does it suggest strength, gentleness, authority, or something else?

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

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a creative story, a formal essay, a quick email?)
  • Is there a specific way you're struggling to use "voice" that you’d like me to address?

Synonyms for the word voice

Idioms of the word voice

at the top of your voice
as loudly as possible
  • She was screaming at the top of her voice.
  • I was shouting at the top of my voice but she couldn't hear me.
find your voice/tongue
to be able to speak or express your opinion
    give voice to something
    to express your feelings, worries, etc.
    • Many workers at the meeting gave voice to their fears about job security.
    like, etc. the sound of your own voice
    (disapproving)to like talking a lot or too much, usually without wanting to listen to other people
    • She’s much too fond of the sound of her own voice.
    make your voice heard
    to express your feelings, opinions, etc. in a way that makes people notice and consider them
    • The programme gives ordinary viewers a chance to make their voices heard.
    • a society in which individuals are able to make their voices heard
    a/the still small voice
    (literary)the voice of God or your conscience, that tells you to do what is morally right
      with one voice
      as a group; with everyone agreeing
      • The various opposition parties speak with one voice on this issue.
      • The teachers speak with one voice when they demand an end to the cuts.

      Practice with vocabulary voice

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. The new policy ensured that every employee had a ________ in the decision-making process.
      2. For academic papers, understanding the difference between active and passive ________ is crucial for clarity.
      3. Despite his nervousness, his ________ and clear presentation convinced the board.
      4. The CEO's firm ________ conveyed authority and determination during the press conference.

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

      1. To ensure their opinions were heard during the policy review, employees sought to collectively express their ________. a) viewpoint b) voice c) sentiment d) position
      2. Which of the following refers to the sound produced by a person when speaking or singing? a) utterance b) speech c) voice d) articulation
      3. In the context of grammatical structures, which term describes whether the subject performs the action (e.g., "The manager approved") or is acted upon (e.g., "The report was approved")? a) tense b) mood c) voice d) aspect
      4. When analyzing public discourse, what elements contribute to how a message is delivered and perceived emotionally? a) rhetoric b) sentiment c) tone d) nuance
      5. Which of these words would best describe someone who acts as a representative to speak on behalf of a group or organization? a) advocate b) spokesperson c) representative d) delegate

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. The committee allowed all department heads to present their individual opinions on the new workflow. (Use "voice")
      2. The company made sure that the concerns of its diverse employees were heard and acknowledged. (Use "voice" or related word forms)
      3. Her confident way of speaking really helped her argument during the negotiation. (Do NOT use "voice")

      Answer:

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. voice
      2. voice
      3. delivery
      4. tone

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

      1. a) viewpoint, b) voice, c) sentiment, d) position (All are correct in this context)
      2. c) voice
      3. c) voice
      4. a) rhetoric, b) sentiment, c) tone, d) nuance (All are correct)
      5. a) advocate, b) spokesperson, c) representative, d) delegate (All are correct)

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. The committee ensured every department head had a voice in discussing the new workflow.
      2. The company committed to giving a voice to the diverse concerns of its employees.
      3. Her confident articulation truly strengthened her argument during the negotiation. (Other suitable replacements: delivery, manner of speaking)

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