The spelling of the word "extra" may seem straightforward, but it can be tricky to understand its pronunciation from reading alone. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /ˈɛkstrə/, with emphasis on the first syllable and a schwa sound in the second syllable. The "x" is pronounced as a "ks" sound, while the "t" and "r" sounds are pronounced separately, making a distinct "tr" sound. Keeping these phonetic nuances in mind can help ensure accurate pronunciation of this common word.
Extra is an adjective commonly used to describe something that is additional, surplus, or beyond what is considered necessary or expected. It denotes an amount or degree that surpasses the usual or standard level. The term can also function as an adverb or a noun, depending on the context.
As an adjective, it signifies an augmentation or increase in quantity, extent, or intensity. For instance, a person can order extra toppings on their pizza or request an extra copy of a document. In sporting events, an extra time or period refers to additional gameplay beyond the regular duration to determine a winner.
As an adverb, extra indicates doing something beyond the required or expected level. It characterizes an action performed in excess or extravagance. For example, someone might go the extra mile to provide exceptional customer service or put in extra effort to complete a task.
When used as a noun, it refers to someone or something that is additional, more, or in excess. A person hired to fill in for an absent employee can be considered an extra. In the entertainment industry, extras are non-speaking actors who appear in the background of a scene to add realism or fill a space.
Overall, extra describes something that is supplementary, superfluous, or exceeding the norm. Whether used as an adjective, adverb, or noun, it signifies going beyond what is expected or exceeding the usual amount or degree.
• A common prefix, denoting above or beyond usual; in excess; additional; out of.
• Beyond what is usual, or has been agreed upon; additional, as extra work, extra hours, extra quantity.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "extra" comes from the Latin word "extra", which means "outside" or "beyond". In Latin, it was used as a preposition to indicate "outside" or "in addition to". This Latin word was later borrowed into various languages, including English, where it has retained a similar meaning. Today, "extra" is commonly used to refer to something additional, beyond what is expected or usual.