Pronouncing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pronouncing
[prəˈnaʊn.sɪŋ ]
Definition
speech function
To pronounce means to articulate or say words correctly and clearly. It often refers to the way sounds are made in spoken language. Proper pronunciation is essential for effective communication and can differ between languages and dialects.
Synonyms
articulate, enunciate, utter, vocalize.
Examples of usage
- She is practicing pronouncing difficult words.
- The teacher emphasized the importance of pronouncing each letter clearly.
- He struggles with pronouncing certain sounds in English.
- They record themselves to improve their pronouncing skills.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Linguistics
- Every language has its own sounds and rules, which makes pronouncing words unique across different cultures.
- Phonetics, the study of sounds, reveals how slight changes in pronunciation can alter meaning.
- Dialect variations highlight how communities can pronounce the same words quite differently.
Education
- Pronunciation is a critical skill in learning a new language, as it helps in effective communication.
- Teachers often use phonetic symbols to guide students on proper pronunciation.
- Practicing pronunciation can boost confidence in speaking, helping individuals feel more at ease.
Pop Culture
- Many songs have lyrics that play with pronunciation, sometimes emphasizing certain sounds for artistic effect.
- Celebrities often face media scrutiny for how they pronounce names or words, impacting their public persona.
- Television shows sometimes feature unique pronunciation for comedic effect, allowing audiences to engage with language playfully.
Technology
- Voice recognition software often relies heavily on correct pronunciation to accurately understand spoken language.
- Apps for language learning utilize pronunciation tools to help users practice and improve their speaking abilities.
- Speech synthesis technology has advanced so that computers can now mimic human-like pronunciation, enhancing user interaction.
Origin of 'pronouncing'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'pronuntiare,' which means to proclaim or announce.
- In the 15th century, 'pronouncing' took shape in English, reflecting the growing necessity for clear communication.
- The prefix 'pro-' signals 'forward' or 'in favor of,' while 'nounce' comes from 'nunciare,' meaning 'to declare.'
The word 'pronounce' originates from the Latin 'pronuntiare', which combines 'pro-' (forth) and 'nuntiare' (to announce). Over time, it evolved through Old French into Middle English as 'pronouncen', and by the late 14th century, it had taken on a form closer to what we recognize today. The modern usage has been influenced by various linguistic developments and educational practices that emphasize clarity and correctness in spoken language. Pronunciation is crucial not only in daily conversation but also in fields such as linguistics, acting, and language learning, making its study ever more relevant in a globalized world.