Hello my beautiful students! English is a lovely language, but it can sometimes be tricky, especially when it comes to pronunciation.
Today, we're going to look at 10 English words that often leave people scratching their heads. Don't worry! We will also guide you on how to pronounce these words correctly.
So, let's get started!
1. Entrepreneur (ahn-truh-pruh-NUR):
This is a French word that English has adopted.
It means a person who sets up a business. The mistake often made is placing emphasis on the wrong syllable or mispronouncing the 'eur' at the end. The correct pronunciation sounds like 'ahn-truh-pruh-NUR.'
2. Hyperbole (hi-PUR-buh-lee): This word refers to extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or effect. The common mistake is pronouncing it as 'HY-per-bowl.' Remember, it sounds like 'hi-PUR-buh-lee.'
3. Subtle (SUH-tl): 'Subtle' means something not immediately obvious or noticeable. Some people incorrectly pronounce the 'b' in 'subtle.' In this case, the 'b' is silent, so the correct pronunciation is 'SUH-tl.'
4. Epitome (ih-PIT-uh-mee): 'Epitome' means a perfect example of something. The usual error is pronouncing it as 'Epi-tome,' similar to 'home.' The correct pronunciation is 'ih-PIT-uh-mee.'
5. Facade (fuh-SAHD): A 'facade' is the front of a building or a false appearance. It is often mispronounced as 'fa-KADE.' The correct pronunciation is 'fuh-SAHD.'
6. Chaos (KAY-oss): Often mispronounced as 'chows,' this word, meaning complete disorder or confusion, is pronounced as 'KAY-oss.'
7. Clothes (klohz): This word referring to the items that we wear is frequently mispronounced as 'clo-th-es.' The right way to pronounce it is 'klohz,' with the 'th' being silent.
8. Penguin (PENG-gwin): This adorable bird is often pronounced as 'peng-goo-in,' but the correct pronunciation is 'PENG-gwin.'
9. Debt (det): The 'b' in this word, which refers to money owed, is silent. So, it is pronounced 'det,' not 'deb-t.'
10. Salmon (SAM-uhn): This is a type of fish, and the 'l' is silent. It should be pronounced as 'SAM-uhn,' not 'sal-mon.'
Remember, practice makes perfect! Write these words down, say them out loud, and try to use them in sentences. You can also listen to the recordings to hear how native English speakers say these words. Don't worry if you can't get it right the first time. Keep practicing, and you'll improve!
In the journey of language learning, mispronunciations are common, and that's entirely okay. What matters is your willingness to learn and improve. I hope this guide helps you on your English learning adventure.
Still have questions? Contact me or leave a voice note!
Happy practicing!
