Learn How to Pronounce absurd

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absurd

Definition:

(nou) a situation in which life seems irrational and meaningless--Albert Camus

Phonetic Transcription:

əbˈsɜːd

Examples:

It is going from the ridiculous to the absurd.

Is this not the most absurd sophistry

The length of the block was absurd.

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absurd

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: absurd

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Common mistakes of absurd pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Some learners may stress the second syllable, saying "ab-SURD" instead of the correct "AB-surd". Tip: Remember that in "absurd", the primary stress is on the first syllable (ˈæb.sɜrd in US, ˈæb.sɜːd in UK).
  2. Incorrect vowel sound: A common mistake is pronouncing the "u" as a long "u" sound, resulting in "ab-soord". Tip: The "u" in "absurd" is pronounced with a schwa sound, as in "ɜr" (US) or "ɜː" (UK).
  3. Omitting the final "d": Some may say "ab-SUR" instead of "ab-SURD". Tip: Always include the final "d" sound to ensure clarity and correctness in pronunciation.
  4. Overemphasizing the "a": Learners sometimes pronounce it like "A-bsur-d" with an exaggerated "a". Tip: The "a" should be a short sound, blending smoothly into the first syllable as "æb".
  5. Mispronouncing the "s": Some may pronounce the "s" as a "z" sound, saying "ab-ZURD". Tip: Ensure the "s" is crisp and clear, maintaining its voiceless sound as in "s" (ˈæb.sɜrd in US, ˈæb.sɜːd in UK).

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "absurd" in American English?

In American English, "absurd" is pronounced as /əbˈsɜrd/. The primary stress is on the second syllable, which sounds like "surd," while the first syllable is a quick, unstressed "əb."

What is the British pronunciation of "absurd"?

In British English, "absurd" is pronounced as /əbˈsɜːd/. Similar to the American pronunciation, the stress is on the second syllable, but the vowel sound in the final syllable is longer, sounding like "urd."

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "absurd"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress on the first syllable, saying "AB-surd" instead of "ab-SURD." Remember, the correct pronunciation emphasizes the second syllable.

How many syllables does the word "absurd" have?

The word "absurd" has two syllables: "ab" and "surd." The first syllable is unstressed, while the second syllable carries the primary stress.
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