Pronunciation can be tricky, especially when it comes to certain words that many people commonly mispronounce. Mastery of pronunciation contributes significantly to effective communication. In this article, we'll delve into 10 words that are often mispronounced, along with guidance on how to pronounce them accurately:
- Pronunciation
- Espresso
- Library
- Mischievous
- Nuclear
- February
- Et cetera
- Supposedly
- Quinoa
- Cliché
Let us now explore each word in detail, providing examples and correct pronunciation:
1. Pronunciation
The word 'pronunciation' is often mistakenly pronounced as 'pro-noun-ci-a-tion.' The correct pronunciation is 'pro-nun-ci-a-tion' (proh-nuhn-see-AY-shuhn). This word, ironically, is often mispronounced because people conflate it with the verb 'pronounce.'
Example:
Incorrect: Her pronoun-ci-a-tion was not clear.
Correct: Her pro-nun-ci-a-tion was spot on.
2. Espresso
The correct way to pronounce 'Espresso' is without the extra 'x': 'es-PRESS-oh.' Many people mistakenly add an 'x,' saying 'ex-PRESS-oh.'
Example:
Incorrect: I'd like an ex-PRESS-oh, please.
Correct: I'd like an es-PRESS-oh, please.
3. Library
This word is often mispronounced as 'li-berry.' The correct pronunciation is 'lie-brer-ee' (LAHY-brer-ee), with all three syllables present.
Example:
Incorrect: I'm going to the li-berry.
Correct: I'm going to the lie-brer-ee.
4. Mischievous
Many pronounce it as 'mis-CHEE-vee-us,' adding an extra syllable. The correct pronunciation is 'MIS-chuh-vus' (MIS-chuh-vuhs).
Example:
Incorrect: He has such a mis-CHEE-vee-us grin.
Correct: He has such a MIS-chuh-vus grin.
5. Nuclear
The word 'nuclear' is often mispronounced as 'nu-cu-lar.' The correct pronunciation is 'NOO-klee-er' (NU-klee-er).
Example:
Incorrect: The nu-cu-lar power plant is operational.
Correct: The NOO-klee-er power plant is operational.
6. February
Commonly pronounced by dropping the first 'r' as 'Feb-yoo-ary,' the correct way is 'Feb-roo-er-ee' (FEB-roo-er-ee).
Example:
Incorrect: February (Feb-yoo-ary) is the shortest month.
Correct: February (Feb-roo-er-ee) is the shortest month.
7. Et cetera
Oftentimes pronounced as 'ex-ET-tra,' this phrase should be pronounced as 'et SET-er-ah' (et SET-er-uh).
Example:
Incorrect: The store sells apples, bananas, ex-ET-ra.
Correct: The store sells apples, bananas, et SET-er-ah.
8. Supposedly
Often mispronounced as 'supposably,' the correct pronunciation is 'suh-POH-zid-lee' (suh-POH-zid-lee).
Example:
Incorrect: She is supposably coming later.
Correct: She is supposedly coming later.
9. Quinoa
This superfood is often pronounced as 'kwin-OH-ah.' However, the correct pronunciation is 'KEEN-wah' (KEEN-wah).
Example:
Incorrect: I made a salad with kwin-OH-ah.
Correct: I made a salad with KEEN-wah.
10. Cliché
Sometimes pronounced with an English 'ch' sound, the correct pronunciation is 'klee-SHAY' (klee-SHAY).
Example:
Incorrect: The movie was full of kli-SHAYS.
Correct: The movie was full of klee-SHAYS.
These examples provide clarity on the correct pronunciation of common words that are often mispronounced. By mastering these, you will refine your speech and enhance your confidence in communication.
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