Learn How to Pronounce black
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How to pronounce:
black
Definition:
(nou) the quality or state of the achromatic color of least lightness (bearing the least resemblance to white) (nou) total absence of light (nou) British chemist who identified carbon dioxide and who formulated the concepts of specific heat and latent heat (1728-1799) (nou) popular child actress of the 1930's (born in 1928) (nou) a person with dark skin who comes from Africa (or whose ancestors came from Africa) (nou) the darker pieces (nou) black clothing (worn as a sign of mourning)
Phonetic Transcription:
blæk
Examples:
The mix of red, black, blue, and purple was disconcerting.
Pitchy black doors with red bricks and white windows are always classic and elegant.
The wings are black with a sheen of blue.
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Common mistakes of black pronunciation
- Misplacing the vowel sound: Some learners pronounce "black" with a long "a" sound, like "blake". This can lead to confusion. Tip: Focus on the short "a" sound /æ/ as in "cat".
- Ignoring the "b" sound: A common mistake is omitting the initial "b" sound, resulting in "lack". This changes the meaning entirely. Tip: Ensure to pronounce the "b" clearly, as /b/ in "bat".
- Incorrect stress placement: Some may stress the second syllable, saying "bla-ck". However, "black" is a one-syllable word. Tip: Remember to keep the stress on the single syllable: /blæk/.
- Overemphasizing the "k" sound: Learners sometimes pronounce "black" with an exaggerated "k", sounding like "blak-k". This can sound unnatural. Tip: Keep the "k" sound soft and integrated, as /k/ at the end of the word.
- Mixing up "black" and "bleak": Some confuse "black" with "bleak", leading to incorrect pronunciation. "Bleak" has a long "ee" sound. Tip: Distinguish between the short "a" in "black" /æ/ and the long "ee" in "bleak" /iː/.