noun

enunciation

ih-nun-see-AY-shuhn

Enunciation (noun) means the way a person pronounces words, especially how clearly and distinctly each sound is formed. Example: “Her enunciation is so crisp you can follow her without subtitles.”

noun

The way a person pronounces words, especially how clearly and distinctly each sound is formed.

"Her enunciation is so crisp you can follow her without subtitles."

"Poor enunciation is the commonest reason presentations are hard to follow."

formal The act of stating something clearly and formally, as of a principle or policy.

"The speech was a careful enunciation of the party's new position."

How to Use Enunciation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHow clearly you say your words.

When to use it

Slightly formal; common in teaching, singing, acting and speech therapy.

Memory tip

Do not confuse it with 'annunciation' (an announcement, especially the biblical one) — that one begins with an a.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

pronunciation → annunciation articulation

Common pairings

clear enunciation careful enunciation poor enunciation enunciation exercises

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ is so crisp you can follow her without subtitles.

Etymology

From Latin enuntiare 'to announce, speak out', from e- 'out' and nuntiare 'to report'.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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pronunciation articulation diction elocution statement declaration expression formulation

Antonyms

mumbling slurring

Related Words

face saying word term account voice article bill

Rhymes for enunciation

region billion ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation abortion abrasion diffusion elocution extension

See all rhymes for enunciation →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between enunciation and pronunciation?

Pronunciation is about which sounds a word is supposed to have — whether you say 'skedule' or 'shedule'. Enunciation is about how clearly you produce those sounds, whatever they are. You can pronounce a word correctly and still enunciate it badly by mumbling it.

How do you improve your enunciation?

Slow down, open your mouth wider than feels natural, and give the final consonant of each word its full value — most unclear speech comes from dropped word endings. Reading aloud and recording yourself makes the problem audible quickly.

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