Learn How to Pronounce burrow

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burrow

Definition:

(nou) a hole made by an animal, usually for shelter

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈbʌrəʊ

Examples:

It breeds in the autumn and gives birth in the winter burrow.

The eels burrow holes in the earth and live there for shelter.

The toads burrow in the earth and create little holes to sleep in.

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burrow

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: burrow

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Common mistakes of burrow pronunciation

  1. Misplacing the stress: Some learners stress the second syllable, pronouncing "burrow" as /ˈbɜːroʊ/ or /ˈbʌroʊ/. This is incorrect; the primary stress is on the first syllable /ˈbɜːr.oʊ/ (US) and /ˈbʌr.əʊ/ (UK). Tip: Focus on emphasizing the first syllable.
  2. Overemphasizing the "r": When pronouncing "burrow," some might exaggerate the "r" sound, leading to /ˈbɜːrr.oʊ/ or /ˈbʌrr.əʊ/. This can sound unnatural. Tip: Keep the "r" subtle and smooth.
  3. Incorrect vowel sound: A common mistake is using a short "u" sound, saying "burrow" as /ˈbʌr.oʊ/. The correct pronunciation has a more open vowel sound /ˈbɜːr.oʊ/ (US) or /ˈbʌr.əʊ/ (UK). Tip: Practice the vowel sound to ensure clarity.
  4. Skipping the second syllable: Some may pronounce "burrow" as a single syllable, /ˈbɜːr/ or /ˈbʌr/. This omits the second syllable completely. Tip: Remember to articulate both syllables clearly.
  5. Confusing with "borrow": Learners often mix up "burrow" with "borrow," leading to mispronunciation. "Burrow" is pronounced /ˈbɜːr.oʊ/ (US) or /ˈbʌr.əʊ/ (UK), while "borrow" is /ˈbɑːr.oʊ/ (US) or /ˈbɒr.əʊ/ (UK). Tip: Listen for the differences in vowel sounds.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "burrow" in American English?

In American English, "burrow" is pronounced as /ˈbɜːroʊ/. The stress is on the first syllable, which sounds like "bur," followed by a long "row" sound.

What is the British pronunciation of "burrow"?

In British English, "burrow" is pronounced as /ˈbʌrəʊ/. The first syllable is stressed, and the second syllable has a schwa sound, which is a quick and relaxed "uh."

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "burrow"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, pronouncing it as /bərˈroʊ/ instead of /ˈbɜːroʊ/. Remember to stress the first syllable to sound more natural.

How many syllables does the word "burrow" have?

The word "burrow" has two syllables: "bur" and "row." Each syllable is pronounced clearly, with the first syllable being stressed.
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