bass

word

/ˈbæs/, /ˈbeɪs/
bas, bays
/ˈbæs/, /ˈbeɪs/
bas, bays

Definition

Bass can mean a type of fish, a very low sound or musical range, or a bass guitar. The pronunciation changes: the fish is said like “base,” while the musical word is said like “bass” in “class.”

Usage & Nuances

This is a classic pronunciation trap because one spelling has two pronunciations and unrelated meanings. Common patterns: 'sea bass' or 'largemouth bass' for the fish; 'bass voice,' 'bass line,' and 'bass guitar' for music. In audio, 'turn up the bass' means increase low frequencies.

Example Sentences

We ate grilled bass for dinner.

basic

I thought bass was easy until I tried to play a real bass line.

natural

Her brother plays bass in a band.

basic

This speaker has strong bass.

basic

Can you turn down the bass? The walls are shaking.

natural

He sings bass, so the low notes are easy for him.

natural