Sake

Definition

Sake can refer to either a Japanese rice wine or a purpose, reason, or benefit.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /seɪk/
• Respelling: SAYK (with "SAYK" rhyming with "make")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /seɪk/
• Respelling: SAYK (similar to American English, with "SAYK" rhyming with "make")

In both dialects, "sake" is pronounced straightforwardly with a long "ay" sound, followed by a hard "k," making it rhyme with words like "make" and "cake." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English.

Etymology

The term "sake" when referring to the Japanese rice wine is derived from the Japanese word "酒" (sake). In the sense of purpose or reason, it stems from Old English 'sacu', meaning a matter, dispute, or reason.

Derivatives

• Sakeless
• Forsake (Related verb form)
• Forsook (Past tense of the related verb forsake)
• Forsaken (Past participle of the related verb forsake)
• Forsaking (Present participle of the related verb forsake)

Synonyms

• Reason
• Benefit
• Purpose

Antonyms

• Disadvantage
• Detriment
• Harm

Usage

The word 'sake' is typically used in expressions to denote purpose or benefit. It can also refer to a type of Japanese rice wine.

Related Terms

• Forsake
• Sakeless

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Purpose or Reason: A motive, cause, or reason as with reference to a principle or thing.‍
• Example: They did it for the sake of winning.

• Benefit: The good or benefit of someone or something.‍
• Example: He advocated for the sake of those who could not speak for themselves.

• Japanese Rice Wine: A Japanese alcoholic drink made by fermenting rice; often referred to as rice wine.
  • IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɑːkeɪ/
  • Respelling: SAH-kay (with "SAH" as in "father," and "kay" as in "kayak"
  ‍
• Example: They toasted with a glass of sake at the Japanese restaurant.