sound

The word "sound" refers to that which we can hear with our ears. Sounds are made by something or someone.

The sound coming from that speaker is really loud.
He’s using a microphone to pick up the sound on the movie set.
He doesn’t like the sound of his own voice. He’s working on his pronunciation.

Sounds may indicate problems or unusual activity:

• My car is making a funny sound.
• Do you hear that sound? Where is that coming from?
• We heard a weird sound last night.
• You sound like you’re getting sick. (This sentence uses "sound" as a verb.)

The word "sound" is also used as an intransitive verb (no object) when describing opinions or ideas:

• That sounds like a good idea.
• Sounds good. (This is kind of an expression.)
• This movie sounds interesting.
• I’d like to get some Thai food for lunch. How does that sound?

Sometimes the word "sound" is used as an adjective to describe something or someone that is of good quality or in good condition. Here are just a few examples:

• Sandra returned from her trip safe and sound.
• This man is not functioning with a sound mind.
• She has some sound opinions on the direction of this company.
• The construction of the bridge is sound.

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This page was first published on September 20, 2016. It was updated on March 27, 2015.