Learn How to Pronounce bulwark

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bulwark

Definition:

(nou) an embankment built around a space for defensive purposes (nou) a fencelike structure around a deck (usually plural) (nou) a protective structure of stone or concrete; extends from shore into the water to prevent a beach from washing away

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈbʊlwək

Examples:

The bulwark eventually collapsed.

Above the bulwark is a terrace with six turrets.

Ommerschans is a former bulwark in the Dutch province of Overijssel.

Learn more about:
bulwark

Related Words:

high

wall

How to perfect your pronunciation of: bulwark

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Break bulwark down into individual sounds such as ˈbʊlwək. Practice these parts before you learn to say the whole word.

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Common mistakes of bulwark pronunciation

Misplacing the stress: Some learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "bul-WARK". Correct pronunciation is "ˈbʌl.wɜrk" in US and "ˈbʌl.wɔːk" in UK. Tip: Always emphasize the first syllable.
Ignoring the "l": A common mistake is to omit the "l" sound, pronouncing it as "buh-wark". This alters the word's clarity. Tip: Focus on clearly articulating the "l" in "bulwark".
Confusing vowel sounds: Some might pronounce the first vowel as "oo", saying "boolwark". The correct sound is "ʌ" as in "cup". Tip: Practice saying "bul" like "bull" to get the right vowel sound.
Incorrectly pronouncing the final consonant: Some may pronounce it as "bulwark" with a hard "k" sound. The correct pronunciation ends with a soft "k" sound in US and a "k" sound in UK. Tip: Listen to native speakers to hear the subtle differences.
Overemphasizing the "w": Learners might pronounce it as "bul-wark" with a strong "w". The correct pronunciation has a softer "w" sound. Tip: Try saying it quickly to maintain a natural flow.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "bulwark" correctly?

The word "bulwark" is pronounced as /ˈbʊlwɜrk/ in American English and /ˈbʌlwək/ in British English. The primary stress is on the first syllable, "bul," which sounds like "bull."

What are the syllables in the word "bulwark"?

"Bulwark" has two syllables: "bul" and "wark." The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound, like in "bull," and the second syllable has a sound similar to "work" or "walk."

Is there a schwa sound in "bulwark"?

No, there is no schwa sound in "bulwark." The second syllable is pronounced clearly, either as "wark" in American English or "wək" in British English, without a reduced vowel sound.

Are there common mistakes when pronouncing "bulwark"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress or pronouncing it with a schwa in the second syllable. Remember to keep the first syllable stressed and pronounce the second syllable clearly as "wark" or "wək."