What is welcome? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of welcome

welcomenoun/verb

/ˈwɛlkəm/
Definition & pronunciation of welcome

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

Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˈwɛlmɪk/

Breakdown:

  • ˈwɛl-: This is the stressed syllable. "Wel" is pronounced like the word "well" (the water source).
  • -mɪk: This part sounds like "mik." The 'i' is a short "i" sound, like in "bit."

How to Say It (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with "Wel": Say "Wel" like you’re saying “well.” Make sure it's clear and pronounced.

  2. Add "mik": Attach "mik" to the end, quickly and smoothly. The sound is similar to the word "mike" (a microphone).

Tips for getting it right:

Would you like me to:

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

Usage and examples with the word welcome in English

Let's break down how to use the word "welcome" in English! It's a versatile word with several different ways to use it, depending on the context. Here's a categorized breakdown:

1. As a Verb (To Receive Someone)

  • Most Common Use: This is the most frequent way you’ll see "welcome" used. It means to receive someone with friendliness and warmth.
    • Example: "Welcome to our home!" (Said to guests)
    • Example: "The staff warmly welcomed the new employee."
    • Example: “Please welcome our speaker, Dr. Emily Carter.” (Announcing someone)

2. As an Interjection (Expressing Welcome)

  • Short and Informal: Used when someone arrives – a quick, enthusiastic greeting.
    • Example: "Welcome! Come on in!"
    • Example: "Welcome! Glad you could make it."

3. As an Adjective (Describing Something Welcoming)

  • Describing a place or situation: This means friendly and inviting.
    • Example: "We stayed in a very welcome hotel after the long drive."
    • Example: "The garden created a welcome respite from the city noise."
    • Example: "He offered a welcome smile."

4. As a Phrase ("Welcome to...”)

  • Introducing someone to something new:
    • Example: "Welcome to the club!" (Introducing someone to a group)
    • Example: "Welcome to the internet!" (Introducing someone to a new technology/world)
    • Example: “Welcome to the United States!” (A common phrase for immigration)

5. More Formal/Traditional Uses:

  • "Welcome aboard": (Used when someone is joining a team, project, or organization) - "Welcome aboard, everyone! Let’s get started."
  • “Welcome to the discussion”: (Starting a conversation, often in a meeting)

Tips and Nuances:

  • Tone of Voice: “Welcome” is almost always delivered with a positive and friendly tone.
  • Body Language: A smile, outstretched hand, or open posture goes a long way when saying "welcome."
  • Context is Key: Think about who you're welcoming and what you’re welcoming them to.

Here’s a quick table summarizing the uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb To receive with warmth “Welcome to our party!”
Interjection A quick greeting “Welcome! Let’s go!”
Adjective Friendly and inviting “A welcome sight”
Phrase Introducing to something new “Welcome to the team!”

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

  • What context are you thinking about when you want to use "welcome"? (e.g., inviting someone to your house, describing a place, introducing someone to a group?)

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