Proper Pronunciation Guide

chafe

[ʧe͜if]

Tips:

  • Pronounce the letters “ch” as
    /ʧ/.
  • Pronounce the letter “a” like the name of the letter itself—
    /e͜i/.
  • Do not pronounce the final letter “e”.

Practice Sentence:

The rubber gloves were so tight that they chafed her skin.

Definition:

  • (verb) To rub against something in a way that causes irritation.

Notes:

This word can be used figuratively, meaning to irritate or annoy—sort of like “being rubbed the wrong way.” Barack Obama in The Audacity of Hope (2006) states: “Finally, for those who chafe at the prospect of working with our allies to solve the pressing global challenges we face, let me suggest at least one area where we can act unilaterally and improve our standing in the world—by perfecting our own democracy and leading by example” (p. 321).
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