letter of the alphabet

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Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A letter of the alphabet is one of the standard, conventional symbols or characters that make up a writing system. These characters are used to visually represent the basic sounds (phonemes) of a spoken language. Collectively, they form an alphabet.
Usage
  • The term "letter of the alphabet" explicitly refers to the individual graphic unit, distinguishing it from other meanings of the word "letter" (such as a written message).
  • It is often used in educational contexts when teaching or referring to the basic building blocks of writing and reading.
  • The plural form "letters of the alphabet" or simply "letters" is common when discussing the set.
Examples
  • Noun:
    • The child is learning to recognize every letter of the alphabet.
    • 'Q' is a letter of the alphabet that is almost always followed by 'u' in English.
    • His grandmother taught him his letters.
Advanced Usage
  • "To know one's letters": An idiom meaning to have basic literacy; to be able to read and write at a fundamental level.
    • In the 19th century, many people did not know their letters.
Variants and Related Words
  • Letter (n): The more common, shortened form. Context usually makes it clear if it means an alphabetic character or a written message. (e.g., vs. )
  • Character (n): A broader term that can refer to any single symbol in a writing system, including letters, digits, or logograms (like in Chinese).
  • Grapheme (n): (Linguistics) The smallest functional unit of a writing system. A letter of the alphabet is a type of grapheme.
Synonyms
  • Alphabetic character: A more formal synonym.
  • Symbol (in the context of writing): A more general term.
Related Phrases
  • Letter shape/form: Refers to the specific visual design of a letter.
  • Letter sound: Refers to the phoneme(s) a letter represents.
Noun
  1. the conventional characters of the alphabet used to represent speech
    • his grandmother taught him his letters

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