English Reference
noun

pronunciation

n.
US /pɹəˌnənsiˈeɪʃən/ UK /pɹənˌʌnsɪˈeɪʃən/ pro·nun·ci·a·tion UK spelling pronunciation's, pronunciation's

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    the way you say a word so that it sounds correct.

    the specific manner in which a word is articulated, including stress, rhythm, and intonation.

    Simple

    You can listen to the online dictionary to check the pronunciation of the word.

    In context

    The student's pronunciation was remarkably accurate, though he still struggled with the subtle distinction between certain vowel sounds.

    Usage

    Often used with the verbs 'improve', 'check', or 'practice'.

    Pitfall
    His pronounciation is very clear. His pronunciation is very clear.

    A common spelling error is adding an 'o' after the 'n'. While the verb is 'pronounce', the noun is 'pronunciation'.

    articulationenunciationdiction
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    the act of making the sounds of a language.

    the physical and phonological act of uttering sounds or words.

    Simple

    Clear pronunciation is more important than having a perfect accent.

    In context

    The teacher focused on the pronunciation of consonant clusters, which many learners find physically challenging to produce.

    Usage

    Uncountable in this sense.


From Middle English pronunciacioun, from Middle French prononciation, pronunciation, from Latin prōnūntiātiō, noun of action from perfect passive participle prōnūntiātus, from verb prōnūntiāre (“proclaim”), from prō- (“for”) + nūntiāre (“announce”). Doublet of pronuntiatio.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin prōnūntiātiō
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated