Learn How to Pronounce circumference

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circumference

Definition:

(nou) the size of something as given by the distance around it (nou) the boundary line encompassing an area or object (nou) the length of the closed curve of a circle

Phonetic Transcription:

sɜːˈkʌmfərəns

Examples:

Compute the circumference of the circle.

An example of this was the diameter and circumference of the site.

Its circumference is from the bole.

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circumference

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: circumference

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Common mistakes of circumference pronunciation

  1. Stress placement: Many learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "cir-CUM-frence". The correct stress is on the third syllable, as in "cir-cum-ˈFER-ence". Tip: Practice emphasizing the "FER" syllable to improve clarity.
  2. Vowel sound confusion: Some may mispronounce "circumference" with a short "i" sound, saying "sir-cum-frenz". The correct pronunciation features a schwa sound in the second syllable, as in "ˌsɜr-kəm-ˈfɛr-əns" (US) and "ˌsɜː-kəm-ˈfɛr-əns" (UK). Tip: Focus on the relaxed vowel sound in "cum".
  3. Missing syllables: A common mistake is to pronounce "circumference" as having only three syllables, like "cir-cum-frens". The word actually has four syllables: "cir-cum-ˈFER-ence". Tip: Break the word into syllables when practicing to ensure you pronounce all of them.
  4. Final "ce" sound: Some learners drop the final "ce" sound, pronouncing it as "circumfer". The correct pronunciation includes the "ence" ending, as in "ˈfɛr-əns" (US) and "ˈfɛr-əns" (UK). Tip: Make sure to articulate the final syllable clearly.
  5. Overemphasizing consonants: Occasionally, speakers overemphasize the "c" and "f" sounds, leading to a choppy pronunciation. The word should flow smoothly as "circumference". Tip: Practice saying the word slowly to develop a more fluid pronunciation.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "circumference" correctly?

The word "circumference" is pronounced as /sɪrˈkʌm.fər.əns/ in American English and /sɪˈkʌm.fər.əns/ in British English. The primary stress is on the second syllable, "cum."

What are the syllables in the word "circumference"?

The word "circumference" has four syllables: "cir," "cum," "fer," and "ence." You can break it down as /sɪr/ + /ˈkʌm/ + /fər/ + /əns/.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "circumference"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, often saying "CIR-cumference" instead of "cir-CUM-ference." Remember to emphasize the second syllable for correct pronunciation.

Does "circumference" have a schwa sound?

Yes, the last syllable in "circumference" contains a schwa sound, represented as /ə/. This makes it sound softer and less emphasized compared to the stressed syllables.
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