The spelling of the phrase "are rotten" is fairly straightforward. The first word, "are," is spelled A-R-E, while the second word, "rotten," is spelled R-O-T-T-E-N. In terms of IPA phonetic transcription, "are" would be transcribed as /ɑːr/ while "rotten" would be transcribed as /ˈrɒtən/. The accent is on the second syllable of "rotten" and it ends with a schwa sound. Overall, the spelling and pronunciation of "are rotten" should not present any challenges for English learners.
"Are rotten" is a phrase used to describe something that is in a state of decay or decomposition, generally due to the growth of bacteria or fungi. It refers to the condition of being spoiled, excessively decomposed, or no longer fit for use or consumption. When an object or substance is described as rotten, it implies that it has undergone chemical changes that are commonly associated with the decomposition process, resulting in a putrid or foul-smelling aroma.
When used metaphorically, "are rotten" can describe a person, organization, or system that has become corrupt, morally decayed, or no longer functioning properly. In this context, it generally implies dishonesty, immorality, or unethical behavior. By labeling something as rotten, it suggests that it has lost its integrity or is no longer reliable.
The phrase can be applied to various contexts, including perishable food items like fruits, vegetables, or meat that have spoiled and become inedible. Similarly, it can be used to describe decaying organic matter, such as fallen leaves or dead animals. Additionally, "are rotten" can be used to indicate the degradation or decomposition of non-perishable objects like wood, fabric, or metal due to natural processes or external factors such as moisture or exposure to heat.
Overall, "are rotten" serves as an umbrella term encompassing the state of disintegration, putrefaction, or moral decay of a wide range of entities, both tangible and abstract.
The phrase "are rotten" does not have its own etymology, as it is a combination of two separate words: "are" and "rotten".
- "Are": It is a form of the verb "to be" in the present tense, second-person plural form. It indicates the existence, state, or conditions of something. The word "are" originated from Old English "eart" (singular) and "sind" (plural).
- "Rotten": It is an adjective that describes something in a state of decay or decomposition. It comes from the Old English word "rotian", meaning "to decay".
The combination of these two words, "are" and "rotten", is used to describe a plural subject (indicated by "are") as being in a state of decay or being decomposed (described by "rotten").