telephone
telephone در ۳۰ ثانیه
- A device used for voice communication over long distances.
- Essential for connecting people instantly through sound transmission.
- Available in various forms, including landlines and modern mobile versions.
- A key invention that revolutionized global human interaction and business.
The word telephone refers to a foundational piece of communication technology that has evolved significantly since its invention in the late 19th century. At its core, a telephone is an instrument designed for the simultaneous transmission and reception of the human voice. In modern contexts, while the word is often shortened to 'phone,' the full term 'telephone' often evokes the image of a traditional landline or a formal communication system. Understanding this word requires looking at both its physical presence and its functional role in society. Historically, a telephone was a stationary object connected to a wall by wires. You would pick up a receiver, listen for a dial tone, and enter a series of digits to reach another specific location. In the contemporary era, the telephone has transformed into a portable computer, yet the fundamental purpose remains the same: connecting two people across a distance through sound. People use this word when they want to be precise about the device itself or when discussing the history of communication. For example, in a business setting, one might refer to a 'telephone conference' to distinguish it from a video meeting. In a domestic setting, an older person might still refer to the 'telephone' sitting on the hallway table. The use of this term implies a certain level of formality or a focus on the audio aspect of the interaction. It is also used in various professional fields, such as 'telephony,' which refers to the development and operation of telephonic equipment. When you use the word telephone today, you are often referencing the infrastructure of voice communication rather than just the modern smartphone apps we use daily.
- The Physical Device
- The hardware consisting of a transmitter and a receiver, traditionally linked by a cord.
- The System
- The global network of cables, satellites, and exchanges that allow voice signals to travel worldwide.
- The Act of Calling
- Using the device to initiate a conversation, often used as a verb in older texts but primarily a noun here.
Alexander Graham Bell is credited with the invention of the first practical telephone in 1876.
Please remain near the telephone while we wait for the doctor to call with your results.
The sound of the telephone ringing in the middle of the night always causes a moment of panic.
In the museum, we saw an early model of a rotary telephone from the 1920s.
The office manager requested a new telephone system to handle the increased volume of customer inquiries.
Using 'telephone' correctly involves understanding its role as a countable noun and its common collocations. In most everyday sentences, you will use an article like 'the' or 'a' before it. For instance, 'The telephone is ringing' or 'I bought a new telephone.' Because it is a tool, it often follows verbs of action such as 'answer,' 'dial,' 'pick up,' 'hang up,' or 'repair.' When you are actively using the device, the preposition 'on' is essential: 'She is on the telephone right now.' This indicates she is engaged in a call. If you are referring to the method of communication, you might say 'by telephone,' such as 'We conducted the interview by telephone.' This usage highlights the medium rather than the physical object. In compound nouns, 'telephone' often acts as a modifier, as in 'telephone number,' 'telephone directory,' or 'telephone booth.' It is important to distinguish between the device and the service. You pay a 'telephone bill' for the 'telephone service.' In more advanced English, 'telephone' can be used as a verb, meaning to call someone, though 'call' or 'phone' is much more common in modern speech. For example, 'I will telephone you tomorrow' is grammatically correct but sounds quite formal or old-fashioned. In technical writing, you might encounter 'telephonic,' the adjective form, describing things related to the telephone system. When describing the sound, we use 'ring' or 'beep.' If a telephone is not working, we say it is 'out of order' or the 'line is dead.' These nuances help you describe various scenarios involving voice communication accurately across different levels of formality.
- Common Verbs
- Answer, dial, hang up, disconnect, monitor, install.
- Prepositional Phrases
- On the telephone, over the telephone, by telephone, via telephone.
- Modifying Nouns
- Telephone exchange, telephone operator, telephone wire, telephone jack.
You can reach our customer service department by telephone during normal business hours.
He was so angry that he slammed the telephone receiver down on the cradle.
While 'phone' is the dominant term in casual conversation, the full word 'telephone' remains prevalent in specific, often more formal or technical, environments. You will hear it frequently in corporate environments, especially when dealing with administrative departments. For example, an automated voice might say, 'Please stay on the line; a telephone representative will be with you shortly.' In legal and official documents, 'telephone' is used to ensure clarity and avoid the ambiguity of 'phone,' which could sometimes refer to other devices. You will also encounter it in the hospitality industry. In a hotel, the guest directory might list 'Telephone Instructions' for making international calls from the room. Public service announcements and safety briefings often use the full term: 'In case of an emergency, use the red telephone located by the exit.' In academic or historical contexts, the word is used to discuss the impact of the invention on global connectivity. Teachers and professors will use 'telephone' when lecturing about the industrial revolution or the history of technology. Furthermore, the word is common in the names of large telecommunications companies, such as 'British Telephone' (historically) or 'Nippon Telegraph and Telephone.' If you are watching vintage films or reading classic literature, the word 'telephone' is used exclusively, as the abbreviation 'phone' did not gain widespread acceptance until later. Listening for 'telephone' can help you identify the register of the conversation; its presence often signals a professional, formal, or instructional tone.
- Customer Support
- 'Your telephone call may be recorded for quality and training purposes.'
- Hotels and Offices
- 'To reach the front desk, press zero on your room telephone.'
The telephone directory used to be a thick book found in every household.
One of the most common mistakes learners make with the word 'telephone' is using it when 'call' or 'phone' would be more natural. While 'I will telephone you' is correct, it often sounds stiff in a casual conversation. Another frequent error involves prepositions. Learners often say 'speak in the telephone' instead of 'speak on the telephone' or 'into the telephone.' The preposition 'on' describes the state of using the system, while 'into' describes the physical action of speaking toward the microphone. Confusion also arises between 'telephone' (the device) and 'telephony' (the science/industry). You wouldn't say 'I use telephony to call my mom.' Furthermore, many students confuse 'telephone' with 'television' or 'telegraph' because they share the same prefix. It is important to remember that 'phone' specifically relates to sound. In writing, misspelling the word as 'telefone' (using an 'f' instead of 'ph') is a common error, especially for speakers of languages where the 'f' sound is always represented by the letter 'f.' Additionally, using 'telephone' as a plural without the 's' is incorrect; it is a standard countable noun. Another subtle mistake is using 'telephone' to refer to a text message. A 'telephone' is for voice; for text, you should use 'message' or 'text.' Finally, some learners forget that 'telephone' can be a modifier. Saying 'my number of telephone' is awkward; the correct form is 'my telephone number.'
- Incorrect Preposition
- Saying 'talk at the telephone' instead of 'talk on the telephone.'
- Spelling Error
- Writing 'telefone' instead of 'telephone.'
Incorrect: I spoke with the telephone. Correct: I spoke on the telephone.
To expand your vocabulary beyond 'telephone,' it is helpful to understand its synonyms and related terms, each with its own nuance. The most common alternative is 'phone,' which is the shortened, informal version used in 90% of daily speech. 'Mobile' or 'cell phone' refers specifically to portable devices, while 'landline' refers to the traditional, wired telephone fixed in a house or office. In technical or slightly dated contexts, you might hear the term 'handset,' which specifically refers to the part of the telephone you hold to your ear and mouth. 'Receiver' is another term for the handset, though it is used less frequently now. For business contexts, 'extension' refers to a specific telephone line within a larger system (e.g., 'Call me at extension 402'). If you are talking about the whole industry, 'telecommunications' or 'telecom' is the appropriate term. In slang, people might refer to a phone as a 'blower' (British English) or a 'cell.' For high-end technology, 'smartphone' is the standard term today, emphasizing the device's computing capabilities. When comparing these, 'telephone' remains the most inclusive and formal term, covering everything from the 1800s wooden boxes to the latest fiber-optic systems. Understanding these alternatives allows you to choose the right word for the right situation, whether you are writing a formal report or chatting with a friend.
- Phone vs. Telephone
- Phone is informal/daily; Telephone is formal/technical.
- Landline vs. Mobile
- Landline is fixed with wires; Mobile is wireless and portable.
- Smartphone
- A telephone with advanced computing and internet capabilities.
While he has a smartphone, he still keeps a traditional telephone in his study for emergencies.
چقدر رسمی است؟
نکته جالب
Before the word was settled on, other proposed names for the telephone included 'the speaking telegraph' and 'the electrical speech transmitter.' The first words spoken over a telephone were 'Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you.'
راهنمای تلفظ
- Stressing the second or third syllable.
- Pronouncing the 'ph' as a 'p' instead of an 'f'.
- Shortening the final 'o' sound too much.
- Pronouncing the 'e' at the end (it is silent).
- Confusing the vowel in 'tel' with 'tal'.
سطح دشواری
A very common word found in almost all basic texts.
Requires correct 'ph' spelling and understanding of compound usage.
Easy to pronounce if the stress is on the first syllable.
Recognizable in most contexts due to its international roots.
بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟
پیشنیازها
بعداً یاد بگیرید
پیشرفته
گرامر لازم
Articles with unique objects
Use 'the telephone' when referring to the specific one in the room.
Compound Noun formation
'Telephone' + 'number' becomes one concept.
Preposition 'on' for media
We are 'on' the telephone, just as we are 'on' the radio.
Verbs of sound
The telephone 'rings' (irregular: ring, rang, rung).
Modal verbs for requests
'Could' you answer the telephone?
مثالها بر اساس سطح
I have a telephone.
J'ai un téléphone.
Subject + verb 'have' + article 'a' + noun.
The telephone is red.
Le téléphone est rouge.
Using the definite article 'the' for a specific object.
What is your telephone number?
Quel est ton numéro de téléphone ?
Possessive adjective 'your' modifying the compound noun.
The telephone is on the table.
Le téléphone est sur la table.
Preposition 'on' showing location.
I see a telephone.
Je vois un téléphone.
Simple present tense with a direct object.
Is this a telephone?
Est-ce un téléphone ?
Question form using 'is' and 'this'.
My telephone is new.
Mon téléphone est neuf.
Possessive adjective 'my' + noun + 'is' + adjective.
He has two telephones.
Il a deux téléphones.
Plural form of the noun 'telephones'.
Please answer the telephone.
S'il vous plaît, répondez au téléphone.
Imperative form using the verb 'answer'.
I am talking on the telephone.
Je parle au téléphone.
Present continuous tense with the preposition 'on'.
The telephone rang three times.
Le téléphone a sonné trois fois.
Past simple of the irregular verb 'ring'.
She needs to use the telephone.
Elle a besoin d'utiliser le téléphone.
Infinitive 'to use' following the verb 'need'.
Where can I find a public telephone?
Où puis-je trouver un téléphone public ?
Modal verb 'can' used for asking possibility.
The telephone bill is very high this month.
La facture de téléphone est très élevée ce mois-ci.
Compound noun 'telephone bill' as the subject.
Wait, I have to dial the telephone number.
Attends, je dois composer le numéro de téléphone.
The verb 'dial' specifically used with numbers and phones.
He forgot his telephone at home.
Il a oublié son téléphone à la maison.
Past simple 'forgot' with a possessive adjective.
The telephone was invented in the nineteenth century.
Le téléphone a été inventé au XIXe siècle.
Passive voice 'was invented'.
Could you please put me through to the manager's telephone?
Pourriez-vous me passer le téléphone du directeur ?
Phrasal verb 'put through' used in a formal request.
If the telephone is busy, I will try again later.
Si le téléphone est occupé, je réessaierai plus tard.
First conditional sentence structure.
I prefer speaking by telephone rather than sending emails.
Je préfère parler par téléphone plutôt que d'envoyer des e-mails.
Using 'by telephone' to describe the medium.
Our office has a very complex telephone system.
Notre bureau dispose d'un système téléphonique très complexe.
Adjective 'complex' modifying the compound noun.
She spent the whole morning on the telephone with clients.
Elle a passé toute la matinée au téléphone avec des clients.
Duration expressed with 'spent the whole morning'.
Is there a telephone directory available in the lobby?
Y a-t-il un annuaire téléphonique disponible dans le hall ?
Existential 'Is there' with a compound noun.
The sound of the telephone interrupted our meeting.
Le son du téléphone a interrompu notre réunion.
Noun 'sound' followed by a prepositional phrase.
The witness claimed she heard the telephone ring shortly before the incident.
Le témoin a affirmé avoir entendu le téléphone sonner peu avant l'incident.
Reporting verb 'claimed' followed by a 'that' clause (omitted).
Despite the rise of social media, the telephone remains a vital tool for business.
Malgré l'essor des réseaux sociaux, le téléphone reste un outil vital pour les entreprises.
Contrastive connector 'Despite' starting the sentence.
He was accused of making threatening telephone calls.
Il a été accusé d'avoir passé des appels téléphoniques menaçants.
Passive structure 'was accused of' followed by a gerund.
The technician is coming to repair the telephone line tomorrow.
Le technicien vient réparer la ligne téléphonique demain.
Present continuous used for a planned future action.
A telephone consultation is often more efficient than an in-person visit.
Une consultation téléphonique est souvent plus efficace qu'une visite en personne.
Comparative structure 'more efficient than'.
The telephone exchange was overwhelmed during the emergency.
Le central téléphonique a été submergé pendant l'urgence.
Passive voice 'was overwhelmed'.
We need to update our telephone security protocols immediately.
Nous devons mettre à jour nos protocoles de sécurité téléphonique immédiatement.
Complex noun phrase as the object.
She has a very distinctive telephone voice.
Elle a une voix au téléphone très distinctive.
Adjective 'distinctive' modifying 'telephone voice'.
The psychological impact of constant telephone accessibility is a subject of much debate.
L'impact psychologique de l'accessibilité téléphonique constante est un sujet de grand débat.
Complex subject phrase with an abstract noun.
The study analyzes the linguistic nuances of telephone-mediated communication.
L'étude analyse les nuances linguistiques de la communication médiatisée par téléphone.
Academic register using 'analyzes' and 'mediated'.
The company's reliance on outdated telephone infrastructure hindered its growth.
La dépendance de l'entreprise à l'égard d'une infrastructure téléphonique obsolète a entravé sa croissance.
Possessive noun + noun + prepositional phrase.
Telephone surveys remain a cornerstone of political polling methodology.
Les enquêtes téléphoniques restent une pierre angulaire de la méthodologie des sondages politiques.
Metaphorical use of 'cornerstone'.
The suspect's telephone records were subpoenaed by the grand jury.
Les relevés téléphoniques du suspect ont été assignés à comparaître par le grand jury.
Passive voice with a legal term 'subpoenaed'.
Effective telephone triage is essential in modern emergency medicine.
Un triage téléphonique efficace est essentiel dans la médecine d'urgence moderne.
Technical term 'triage' used with 'telephone'.
The novel explores the telephone as a symbol of missed connections.
Le roman explore le téléphone comme symbole de rendez-vous manqués.
Literary analysis register.
Advances in IP telephony have revolutionized international business operations.
Les progrès de la téléphonie IP ont révolutionné les opérations commerciales internationales.
Present perfect 'have revolutionized'.
The advent of the telephone precipitated a paradigm shift in interpersonal dynamics.
L'avènement du téléphone a précipité un changement de paradigme dans la dynamique interpersonnelle.
High-level vocabulary like 'advent,' 'precipitated,' and 'paradigm shift'.
One must consider the telephonic medium's inherent limitations regarding non-verbal cues.
Il faut considérer les limites inhérentes au média téléphonique en ce qui concerne les indices non verbaux.
Formal 'one must' and 'inherent limitations'.
The sheer ubiquity of the telephone has rendered the concept of 'being out of reach' almost obsolete.
L'ubiquité même du téléphone a rendu le concept d'être « hors de portée » presque obsolète.
Present perfect and high-level adjectives 'ubiquity' and 'obsolete'.
The essay critiques the dehumanizing aspects of automated telephone interfaces.
L'essai critique les aspects déshumanisants des interfaces téléphoniques automatisées.
Academic verb 'critiques' and 'dehumanizing'.
The legal implications of telephone tapping vary significantly across international jurisdictions.
Les implications juridiques des écoutes téléphoniques varient considérablement selon les juridictions internationales.
Legal and technical subject matter.
The artist used the telephone as a motif to represent the fragility of human discourse.
L'artiste a utilisé le téléphone comme motif pour représenter la fragilité du discours humain.
Artistic analysis register.
Telephonic communication, while instantaneous, lacks the nuanced intimacy of physical presence.
La communication téléphonique, bien qu'instantanée, n'a pas l'intimité nuancée de la présence physique.
Appositive phrase 'while instantaneous'.
The deregulation of the telephone industry fostered an era of unprecedented technological innovation.
La déréglementation de l'industrie du téléphone a favorisé une ère d'innovation technologique sans précédent.
Economic and historical register.
ترکیبهای رایج
عبارات رایج
— To end a telephone conversation by putting the receiver down or pressing a button.
Don't hang up the telephone yet; I have one more thing to say.
— To answer a ringing telephone or prepare to make a call.
She didn't pick up the telephone when I called her.
— Using the telephone as a method of communication.
The results will be delivered by telephone.
— When two people repeatedly try to call each other but only reach voicemail.
We've been playing telephone tag all afternoon.
— Wait a moment (often used figuratively to mean 'stop and listen').
Hold the telephone! Did you just say you're getting married?
— The way someone speaks and behaves when talking on the phone.
She has an excellent telephone manner, which is great for customer service.
— To remain connected and not hang up.
Please stay on the telephone while I check your records.
— To finish a call and stop using the device.
I need to get off the telephone and start cooking dinner.
— Easily reachable by calling.
Don't worry, I'm only a telephone away if you need help.
اغلب اشتباه گرفته میشود با
An older system for sending text messages via code, not voice.
A device for receiving moving images and sound, not for two-way talking.
A part of a telephone that captures sound, but not the whole device.
اصطلاحات و عبارات
— A game where a message is passed from person to person and becomes distorted, often used as a metaphor for rumors.
By the time the news reached me, it was like a telephone game.
Informal— Wait a minute; used when you hear something surprising or want someone to stop.
Hold the phone! You actually won the lottery?
Slang/Informal— Though not directly an idiom of 'telephone,' it is related in some etymological theories; means fake or fraudulent.
He gave me a phony telephone number.
Informal— Originally referring to a telephone receiver not being replaced, now meaning very busy or extremely good.
The telephone has been ringing off the hook all day.
Informal— To call someone on the telephone.
Give me a ring when you get home.
Informal— To make a lot of telephone calls or send many messages.
She's been burning up the wires trying to organize the party.
Informal— No sound or response coming from the telephone.
I tried to call, but the telephone was dead on the line.
Neutral— A direct telephone line set up for a specific purpose, usually emergencies.
Call the suicide prevention hotline if you need help.
Formal/Neutral— To telephone a potential customer without prior contact.
I hate getting telephone cold calls during dinner.
Business— To be talking on the telephone.
He's been on the blower to his lawyer all morning.
Informal (British)بهراحتی اشتباه گرفته میشود
It is the same word but a different register.
Telephone is the full, formal name; phone is the common abbreviation used in daily life.
I need to buy a new phone. (Casual) / The telephone was installed yesterday. (Formal)
Both are used for calling.
Mobile refers specifically to a portable wireless phone; telephone can be a landline or a general term.
My mobile is in my pocket.
They both refer to the communication device.
Handset is the specific physical part you hold; telephone is the entire system or device.
Lift the handset of the telephone.
Both relate to the telephone hardware.
The receiver is specifically the part you listen to; the telephone is the whole unit.
The receiver is covered in dust.
Similar roots.
Telephony is the technology or industry; telephone is the actual device.
He works in the field of telephony.
الگوهای جملهسازی
I have a [noun].
I have a telephone.
Can you [verb] the [noun]?
Can you answer the telephone?
I was [verb-ing] on the [noun] when...
I was talking on the telephone when the power went out.
The [noun] is used for [verb-ing].
The telephone is used for contacting clients.
The [noun] has undergone [adjective] changes.
The telephone has undergone significant technological changes.
Such was the impact of the [noun] that...
Such was the impact of the telephone that it redefined distance.
By [noun], we can...
By telephone, we can communicate instantly.
The [noun] [verb]...
The telephone rang.
خانواده کلمه
اسمها
فعلها
صفتها
مرتبط
نحوه استفاده
Highly frequent in both written and spoken English, though 'phone' is more common in speech.
-
I will telefone you.
→
I will telephone you.
The word must be spelled with 'ph' because of its Greek origin. 'Telefone' is a common spelling mistake for non-native speakers.
-
I am in the telephone.
→
I am on the telephone.
We use the preposition 'on' to describe using a communication device or medium. 'In' would mean you are physically inside the device.
-
Give me your telephone.
→
Give me your telephone number.
Usually, people want the number to call you, not the physical device itself. Be specific to avoid confusion.
-
The telephone is ringing off the hooks.
→
The telephone is ringing off the hook.
The idiom is singular ('hook') because old telephones had only one hook for the receiver.
-
I had a long telephone.
→
I had a long telephone call.
A 'telephone' is an object; a 'telephone call' is the activity. You cannot have a 'long object' in terms of time.
نکات
Use 'the' for the system
When you say 'I heard it on the telephone,' you are referring to the system of communication. Always use the definite article 'the' in this context to sound natural.
Learn the compounds
Mastering words like 'telephone number' and 'telephone bill' is more useful than just knowing 'telephone' alone. These compound nouns are how the word is used most often in real life.
Stress the start
Always put the emphasis on the first syllable: **TEL**-e-phone. Putting the stress anywhere else will make the word difficult for native speakers to understand quickly.
Formal vs. Informal
Choose 'telephone' for formal reports, academic essays, or professional emails. Choose 'phone' for text messages, casual emails, and daily conversation with friends.
Identify the 'ph'
Train your ear to hear the 'f' sound in 'telephone.' It is a soft sound that can sometimes be lost in fast speech, but it is always there in the first and last syllables.
Telephone Manners
When answering a professional telephone, always state your name or company. Saying 'Hello' is fine for personal calls but can be seen as unprofessional in a business context.
The 'ph' Rule
Remember that 'telephone' is a Greek-rooted word. In English, Greek 'f' sounds are almost always 'ph.' Think of 'photo' or 'phrase' to help you remember the spelling.
Telephone vs. Call
Remember that 'telephone' is usually the object, while 'call' is the action. Instead of 'I had a telephone,' say 'I had a telephone call' if you mean the conversation.
Historical Context
If you are reading a book set before 1990, the word 'telephone' will almost always refer to a landline. Keep this in mind to visualize the setting correctly.
Telephone Voice
Many people use a 'telephone voice'—a clearer, slightly higher-pitched version of their normal voice. Practice speaking clearly when you are on the telephone.
حفظ کنید
روش یادسپاری
Imagine a **TELL**ing **E**lephant on a **PHONE**. He is **TELL-E-PHONE**ing his friends.
تداعی تصویری
Picture a long wire stretching across the ocean with a giant ear on one end and a giant mouth on the other.
شبکه واژگان
چالش
Try to use the word 'telephone' instead of 'phone' in three formal sentences today. For example, write an email asking for someone's 'telephone number'.
ریشه کلمه
The word 'telephone' was created in the 19th century using Classical Greek roots. 'Tele' (τῆλε) means 'far off' or 'at a distance,' and 'phone' (φωνή) means 'voice,' 'sound,' or 'speech.' It was first used to describe various devices that could transmit sound over distances before Alexander Graham Bell's famous invention.
معنای اصلی: A device for transmitting sound to a far distance.
Indo-European (Greek roots via International Scientific Vocabulary).بافت فرهنگی
Be aware that in emergency situations, 'telephone' is the word used in official instructions. Do not use slang like 'blower' in serious contexts.
In the UK, people often say 'on the phone' more than 'on the telephone.' In the US, 'cell phone' is the standard term, while 'mobile' is more common in the UK and Australia.
تمرین در زندگی واقعی
موقعیتهای واقعی
At the Office
- Transfer the telephone call.
- Hold the telephone line.
- Telephone extension.
- Corporate telephone policy.
At Home
- Answer the telephone.
- Telephone is ringing.
- Hang up the telephone.
- Check the telephone bill.
In an Emergency
- Find a telephone.
- Emergency telephone.
- Telephone for help.
- Police telephone number.
History Class
- Invention of the telephone.
- Early telephone models.
- Telephone wires.
- The first telephone call.
Customer Service
- Telephone support.
- Stay on the telephone.
- Telephone representative.
- Automated telephone system.
شروعکنندههای مکالمه
"Do you remember the first telephone you ever owned?"
"How often do you use a landline telephone these days?"
"What is the most important telephone call you have ever received?"
"Do you think the telephone has made us more or less connected?"
"If you could telephone anyone from history, who would it be?"
موضوعات نگارش
Write about a day where you are not allowed to use any telephone.
Describe what the world would be like if the telephone was never invented.
Reflect on how your telephone habits have changed over the last five years.
Write a short story that begins with a mysterious telephone call at midnight.
Explain the importance of the telephone in your professional life.
سوالات متداول
10 سوالYes, 'telephone' is still used, especially in formal, technical, and official contexts. While 'phone' is the common everyday term, 'telephone' provides a level of precision and formality. It is frequently found in business contracts, instruction manuals, and historical discussions. Using the full word can help clarify that you are referring to the voice communication system rather than just a mobile device.
A telephone is the broad category for any device that transmits voice over a distance. A smartphone is a specific type of modern telephone that includes a computer, internet access, and various applications. Every smartphone is a telephone, but not every telephone (like an old landline) is a smartphone. The term 'telephone' is more inclusive of the technology's history.
Yes, 'telephone' can be used as a verb meaning to call someone. For example, 'I will telephone you at noon.' However, this usage is considered quite formal or slightly old-fashioned. In modern conversational English, people almost always use the verbs 'call' or 'phone' instead. It is still grammatically correct but might sound stiff in casual settings.
The 'ph' spelling comes from the Greek root 'phone,' meaning sound or voice. In English words of Greek origin, the /f/ sound is traditionally represented by 'ph.' This is consistent across many related words such as 'phonics,' 'symphony,' and 'microphone.' Spelling it with an 'f' (telefone) is incorrect in English.
The phrase 'on the telephone' means that someone is currently engaged in a conversation using the device. For example, if you say 'Sarah is on the telephone,' it means she is talking to someone right now. It can also mean that a service or function is available through that medium, such as 'support is available on the telephone.'
Yes, 'telephone' is a countable noun. You can have one telephone, two telephones, or many telephones. When using it in the singular, you usually need an article (a/the) or a possessive adjective (my/your). For example, 'I have a telephone' or 'The telephones in the office are all ringing.'
A telephone exchange is a central system or building where telephone lines are connected to each other to allow calls to be made. Historically, these were operated by people who manually plugged wires into boards. Today, telephone exchanges are entirely digital and automated, serving as the hubs of the telecommunications network.
'Telephone tag' is an informal expression used when two people try to call each other multiple times but keep missing each other. For example, Person A calls Person B and leaves a message; then Person B calls Person A back but Person A is busy. This back-and-forth cycle is called 'playing telephone tag.' It is a common frustration in professional life.
In British English, the word is 'telephone,' exactly the same as in American English. However, the common abbreviation 'phone' is used just as frequently. British speakers might also use terms like 'mobile' for a cell phone or the slang term 'blower.' The pronunciation varies slightly in the vowel sounds, but the word itself is identical.
A landline telephone is a device that is connected to the network by physical wires (copper or fiber optic) that run into a building. Unlike mobile phones, landlines are stationary and do not require a battery or signal from a tower. They are often considered more reliable during power outages and are still common in many offices and homes.
خودت رو بسنج 200 سوال
Write a sentence using 'telephone' and 'number'.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Describe what you do when the telephone rings.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Write a formal request for a telephone call.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Explain the difference between a landline and a mobile telephone.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Write a short story about a mysterious telephone call.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Discuss the impact of the telephone on society.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Write a complaint about a high telephone bill.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Describe a telephone booth to someone who has never seen one.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Use 'telephonic' in a sentence.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Explain the idiom 'ringing off the hook'.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Write a dialogue between a telephone operator and a customer.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Reflect on a time you played 'telephone tag'.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Write three synonyms for 'telephone'.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
How do you answer a professional telephone call?
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Describe the sound of a telephone.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Write about the first telephone call ever made.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
What are the benefits of using a telephone over email?
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Use 'by telephone' in a sentence.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Describe a rotary telephone.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Write a sentence using 'telephone directory'.
خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.
Pronounce 'telephone' clearly.
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'I am on the telephone.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Ask: 'Where is the telephone?'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'Please answer the telephone.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'What is your telephone number?'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Explain how to use a telephone.
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Tell a short story about a telephone call.
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'The telephone is ringing off the hook.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Ask to be put through to the manager.
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Discuss the pros and cons of telephones.
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'I'll telephone you back in five minutes.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'The telephone bill is due today.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Explain what a telephone directory is.
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'Hold the telephone! Is that true?'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'I prefer landline telephones for long calls.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Practice the 'ph' sound in 'telephone'.
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'The telephone operator was very helpful.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Describe your ideal telephone.
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'We are experiencing telephone line issues.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Say: 'Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone.'
این را بلند بخوانید:
تو گفتی:
تشخیص گفتار در مرورگر شما پشتیبانی نمیشود. از کروم یا اج استفاده کنید.
Listen and identify the word: /ˈtel.ɪ.fəʊn/
Listen to the sentence: 'The telephone is ringing.' What is ringing?
Listen: 'Dial nine-one-one.' What is the number?
Listen: 'I'm on the telephone.' What is the speaker doing?
Listen: 'The bill is high.' What is high?
Listen: 'The operator is busy.' Who is busy?
Listen: 'Hang up the phone.' What should you do?
Listen: 'The line is dead.' Is the phone working?
Listen: 'Check the directory.' Where should you look?
Listen: 'It's a telephonic interview.' What kind of interview is it?
Listen: 'Pick up the receiver.' What should you pick up?
Listen: 'The exchange is closed.' What is closed?
Listen: 'Don't slam the phone.' Should you be gentle?
Listen: 'The number is unlisted.' Can you find it?
Listen: 'Stay on the telephone.' Should you hang up?
/ 200 درست
نمره کامل!
Summary
The telephone is more than just a device; it is the fundamental tool for real-time voice communication across the globe. Whether using a traditional landline or a modern smartphone, the act of 'telephoning' remains a central part of social and professional life. Example: 'I will reach out to him by telephone to discuss the contract.'
- A device used for voice communication over long distances.
- Essential for connecting people instantly through sound transmission.
- Available in various forms, including landlines and modern mobile versions.
- A key invention that revolutionized global human interaction and business.
Use 'the' for the system
When you say 'I heard it on the telephone,' you are referring to the system of communication. Always use the definite article 'the' in this context to sound natural.
Learn the compounds
Mastering words like 'telephone number' and 'telephone bill' is more useful than just knowing 'telephone' alone. These compound nouns are how the word is used most often in real life.
Stress the start
Always put the emphasis on the first syllable: **TEL**-e-phone. Putting the stress anywhere else will make the word difficult for native speakers to understand quickly.
Formal vs. Informal
Choose 'telephone' for formal reports, academic essays, or professional emails. Choose 'phone' for text messages, casual emails, and daily conversation with friends.
مثال
The telephone rang loudly in the quiet office.
محتوای مرتبط
این کلمه در زبانهای دیگر
واژههای بیشتر communication
advice
A2او به من نصیحت خوبی برای آیندهام کرد.
advise
A2نصیحت کردن یا مشورت دادن به کسی به معنای ارائه پیشنهاد درباره کاری است که باید انجام دهد.
aloud
A2یعنی با صدایی حرف بزنی که بقیه بتونن خوب بشنون.
break the ice
B1یخ کسی را شکستن: انجام کاری برای کاهش تنش در یک محیط اجتماعی.
communication
B1ارتباط عبارت است از تبادل اطلاعات بین افراد. ارتباط موثر کلید موفقیت در زندگی شخصی و حرفهای است.
complain
A2او از سر و صدای همسایهها به پلیس شکایت کرد.
congratulate
A2یعنی به خاطر موفقیت یا اتفاق خوبی که برای کسی افتاده، بهش تبریک بگی.
conversation
A2گفتگو تبادل افکار و احساسات بین دو یا چند نفر است. این یک بخش حیاتی از تعاملات انسانی است.
converse
B2گفتگو کردن؛ صحبت کردن.
disagree
B1داشتن نظر یا احساس متفاوت در مورد چیزی یا کسی در مقایسه با شخص دیگر. / مخالف بودن.