European
European
Pronunciation
IPA: /ˌjʊə.rəˈpi.ən/
Syllable Breakdown:
ˌjʊə. /ˈjʊə/ - This syllable begins with a yod sound (/j/) followed by a diphthong (/ʊə/).
rə. /ˈrə/ - This syllable consists of a rhotic sound (/r/) followed by a schwa (/ə/).
ˈpi. /ˈpi/ - This syllable is stressed and consists of a voiceless bilabial stop (/p/) followed by a close front vowel (/i/).
ən. /ˈən/ - This syllable consists of a nasal consonant (/n/) followed by a schwa (/ə/).
Key Notes:
The stress falls on the third syllable ("pi").
The diphthong /ʊə/ represents a vowel sound that glides from a rounded, back vowel to a more open, front vowel.
Word Form Variations
European (adjective): Relating to Europe.
Europeans (noun plural): People from Europe.
These are the primary word form variations for "European."
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Adjective
Definition: Relating to or characteristic of Europe or its inhabitants.
Synonyms: Continental, European-born, European-bred, European-descended, European-style
Antonyms: Non-European, foreign, exotic, alien, non-native
Noun
Definition: A native or inhabitant of Europe.
Synonyms: European person, European national, European citizen
Antonyms: Non-European, foreigner, alien, non-native
Note:
While "European" can technically be used as an adverb (e.g., "She thinks very European"), this usage is rare and often considered informal or poetic.
Examples of Use
Books:
"The novel follows the journey of a young American woman who falls in love with a charming European aristocrat." (Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice)
"European history is a complex tapestry woven from countless threads of conflict and cooperation." (Norman Davies, Europe: A History)
Newspapers:
"European leaders are meeting today to discuss the ongoing refugee crisis." (The New York Times)
"The European Union has imposed sanctions on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine." (The Guardian)
Online Publications:
"Travel Europe on a budget with these insider tips." (Lonely Planet)
"Exploring the diverse culinary traditions of European cuisine." (BBC Good Food)
Entertainment:
Film: "The film tells the story of a group of European immigrants struggling to make a new life in America." (e.g., Gangs of New York)
Television: "The reality show follows the lives of several wealthy European socialites." (e.g., The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills)
General Public Discourse:
"I'm planning a trip to Europe this summer. I'm most excited to visit Italy and France." (Everyday conversation)
"European art has had a profound influence on Western culture." (Academic discussion)
10 Famous Quotes Using European
"The whole of Europe is but one nation, and we must feel as members of one great family." (Richard Cobden, British political economist)
"Europe is a garden – and we Europeans have to water it." (Helmut Kohl, former German Chancellor)
"Europe is not a geographical expression, but a spiritual reality." (Victor Hugo, French novelist)
"The United States is essentially a European nation." (Alexis de Tocqueville, French historian and political scientist)
"The American Dream is a European dream." (Milan Kundera, Czech novelist)
"Europe is a continent of ideas, not of empires." (Václav Havel, Czech playwright and politician)
"European civilization is founded on two great principles: the sovereignty of the individual and the rule of law." (Jacques Delors, former President of the European Commission)
"The European Union is an experiment in human solidarity." (Jean Monnet, French statesman and economist)
"Europe must become a political power in the world." (Margaret Thatcher, former British Prime Minister)
"The future of Europe lies in its unity." (Robert Schuman, French statesman)
Etymology
The word "European" comes from the name "Europe."
Ancient Roots:
Long ago, people believed Europe was named after a princess in Greek mythology named Europa.
Some think the name "Europe" might also come from ancient Greek words meaning "wide" and "face," referring to Europe's broad coastline.
Turning into "European":
Over time, the name "Europe" was used to describe the continent.
The word "European" then appeared, meaning "relating to or characteristic of Europe."
First Use:
The first known use of "European" was in the mid-1500s.
Basically, "European" is a word that connects us to the history and geography of the continent of Europe.
Phrases + Idioms Containing European
There aren't many common idioms specifically using the word "European." "European" is more often used as a straightforward adjective or noun. Let’s explore some phrases and idioms related to the concept of being "European" or to the characteristics often associated with Europe:
"To think European": This phrase could be used to describe someone who approaches problems with a focus on cooperation, diplomacy, and a sense of shared responsibility, reflecting the ideals of the European Union.
"To live the European life": This might evoke images of leisurely travel, enjoying fine cuisine, and appreciating art and culture, all of which are often associated with European lifestyles.
"To bring a European touch to something": This could mean adding a touch of elegance, sophistication, or a focus on quality and craftsmanship to something, drawing on the perceived qualities of European design and manufacturing.
Idioms with Similar Effect (using synonyms like "continental" or "continental European"):
"To have continental flair": To have a sophisticated and stylish manner.
"To live the continental life": To enjoy a relaxed and cultured lifestyle.
Original Phrases:
"A European mind": A mind open to diverse perspectives and willing to engage in thoughtful debate.
"A European spirit": A spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility.
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of European from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
