phoneme
noun C2
Plain meaning
a basic sound unit in a language that can change meaning
Exam-register meaning
In formal or high-level texts, it is used to describe a basic sound unit in a language that can change meaning, often with a precise or specialised tone.
In context
naturalThe article mentioned phoneme as one of the main issues.
examThe author examines phoneme in relation to social change, public policy, and institutional responsibility.
Common collocations
a clear phonemeevidence of phonemewidespread phoneme
Watch out
Do not use “phoneme” as a vague high-level replacement; make sure the sentence really needs this specific noun.
Word family
phonemic (adjective)phonology (noun)