Learn How to Pronounce celibate

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celibate

Definition:

(nou) an unmarried person who has taken a religious vow of chastity

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈselɪbət

Examples:

He is the god of war and is celibate.

One can be the latter and be celibate.

The others, he said, are celibate.

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celibate

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: celibate

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Common mistakes of celibate pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Many learners stress the second syllable, saying "ˈsɛl.ɪ.bət" instead of "ˈsɛl.ɪ.bɪt". This can alter the word's clarity. Tip: Focus on the first syllable to maintain proper emphasis.
  2. Incorrect vowel sounds: Some pronounce "celibate" with an "a" sound, saying "ˈsɛl.ə.bət". The correct pronunciation uses a short "i" in the last syllable. Tip: Practice the final syllable as "bɪt" to avoid confusion.
  3. Overemphasizing syllables: Saying "ˈsɛl.ɪ.bəˌteɪ" introduces an unnecessary extra syllable. The word has only three syllables. Tip: Keep your pronunciation concise by focusing on the three distinct syllables.
  4. Ignoring the "t" sound: Some omit the "t" sound, pronouncing it as "ˈsɛl.ɪ.bə". This can lead to misunderstandings. Tip: Ensure you clearly articulate the "t" at the end of "celibate" to enhance clarity.
  5. Mixing up regional accents: In UK English, "celibate" is pronounced as "ˈsɛl.ɪ.bət", while in US English, it's "ˈsɛl.ɪ.bɪt". Be aware of these differences. Tip: Listen to native speakers from both regions to grasp the variations.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "celibate" in American English?

In American English, "celibate" is pronounced as /ˈsɛl.ɪ.bɪt/. The primary stress is on the first syllable, "cel," which sounds like "sell."

Is there a difference in the pronunciation of "celibate" between British and American English?

Yes, in British English, "celibate" is pronounced as /ˈsɛl.ɪ.bət/. The last syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, making it sound like "but."

What are some common mistakes when pronouncing "celibate"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, often placing it on the second syllable instead of the first. Remember, the correct stress is on "cel" as in "sell."

How many syllables are in the word "celibate"?

The word "celibate" has three syllables: "cel-i-bate." Each syllable is pronounced clearly, with the first syllable receiving the primary stress.
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