pronounce
Pronounce (verb) means to make the sound of a word or letter in speech. Example: “Many learners struggle to pronounce the "th" sound in English.”
How to use pronounce
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo say a word the correct way, or to state something officially.
Word forms
pronounced past tense, pronounces singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Many learners struggle to _____ the "th" sound in English.
Etymology
From Old French prononcier, from Latin prōnūntiō, from pro- ("forth, publicly") plus nūntiō ("to announce").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for pronounce
See all rhymes for pronounce →Frequently asked questions
What does “pronounce” mean?
The word “pronounce” means to make the sound of a word or letter in speech. In plain terms, to say a word the correct way, or to state something officially.
How do you pronounce “pronounce”?
“Pronounce” is pronounced pruh-NOWNS (/pɹəˈnaʊns/ in IPA).
How do you use “pronounce” in a sentence?
Here is “pronounce” used in a sentence: “Many learners struggle to pronounce the "th" sound in English.”
What part of speech is “pronounce”?
“Pronounce” is a verb.
Where does the word “pronounce” come from?
The word “pronounce” comes from Latin. From Old French prononcier, from Latin prōnūntiō, from pro- ("forth, publicly") plus nūntiō ("to announce").
Is “pronounce” a common word?
“Pronounce” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “pronounce” have?
“Pronounce” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make the sound of a word or letter in speech.
What is the difference between pronounce and enunciate?
Pronounce refers generally to making the correct sound of a word or letter, while enunciate emphasizes speaking clearly and distinctly, especially so that each sound is easily understood. You can pronounce a word correctly without enunciating it clearly if you mumble.
Does pronounce always relate to speech sounds?
No. Pronounce can also mean to declare something formally or officially, as in a judge who pronounces a sentence or a couple pronounced husband and wife. This formal sense is distinct from the everyday meaning about saying sounds correctly.
What is a common mistake when using pronounce?
A common error is treating pronounce and pronunciation as interchangeable in spelling; pronounce is the verb, while pronunciation is the noun, and the noun form drops the second 'o' sound pattern, which trips up many writers.