English is a complex language with many words that are often mispronounced, even by native speakers. Mispronunciations can sometimes lead to confusion or misunderstandings, so striving for pronunciation accuracy is essential.
Here are 15 commonly mispronounced English words and how to say them correctly.
Espresso
Many people mistakenly pronounce this coffee beverage as “expresso,” but the correct pronunciation is “es-press-oh,” emphasizing the first syllable. Avoiding the “x” sound in the middle is crucial for accuracy.
Nuclear
Instead of saying “nuke-yoo-lar,” pronounce it as “new-klee-er,” with the stress on the first syllable. This word refers to atomic energy or weapons and should not be confused with similar-sounding words.
Mischievous
The correct pronunciation is “mis-chuh-vuhs,” emphasizing the first syllable. Avoid saying “mis-chee-vee-uhs,” which is a common mispronunciation that adds an extra syllable.
Supposedly
Instead of saying “supposably,” pronounce it as “suh-poh-zid-lee,” with the stress on the second syllable. This word means “according to what is generally assumed or believed” and is often used in everyday conversation.
Sherbet
While many people say “sherbert,” the correct pronunciation is “shur-bit,” emphasizing the first syllable. This frozen dessert is often mispronounced due to its spelling, so it’s essential to remember the correct pronunciation.
February
Don’t forget the “r” in this word! Instead of saying “Feb-you-ary,” pronounce it as “Feb-roo-ary,” with an emphasis on the second syllable. This month’s name is commonly mispronounced due to its spelling.
Library
Some people pronounce this word as “lie-berry,” but the correct pronunciation is “lie-bruh-ree,” with an emphasis on the second syllable. It refers to a place where books and other materials are kept for borrowing or reference, so accuracy is crucial.
Often
While both “off-en” and “off-tun” are acceptable pronunciations, the latter is considered more formal and correct in British English. Depending on regional dialects, either pronunciation is acceptable in American English.
Realtor
Instead of saying “real-a-tor,” pronounce it as “ree-luh-ter,” emphasizing the second syllable. This word refers to a licensed real estate professional and should be pronounced accurately in professional settings.
Jewelry
The correct pronunciation is “joo-uhl-ree,” emphasizing the first syllable. Avoid saying “jew-luh-ree,” which is a common mispronunciation that drops the “e” sound in the second syllable.
Prescription
Instead of saying “per-scrip-shun,” pronounce it as “pri-skrip-shun,” emphasizing the second syllable. This word refers to a written order for medication from a doctor and should be pronounced accurately in medical contexts.
Candidate
The correct pronunciation is “kan-duh-dit,” emphasizing the first syllable. Avoid saying “can-i-date,” which is a common mispronunciation that emphasizes the wrong syllable.
Ask
While it’s tempting to pronounce this word as “aks,” the correct pronunciation is “ask,” with the “s” sound coming before the “k” sound. This word is commonly mispronounced in casual conversation.
Height
Don’t add an unnecessary “th” sound to the end of this word. Instead of saying “heighth,” pronounce it as “hite,” emphasizing the first syllable. Pronunciation accuracy is essential for clarity and understanding.
Almond
While both “ahl-muhnd” and “ah-muhnd” are acceptable pronunciations, the latter is more common in American English. Either pronunciation is considered correct, but consistency is key for effective communication.
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Victoria Cornell helps women adopt a positive mindset even when the struggles of motherhood feel overwhelming. Victoria writes for multiple media outlets where she writes about, saving money, retirement, ways to reduce stress with mindset, manifesting, goal planning, productivity, and more.
