Learn How to Pronounce clever

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clever

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈklevə

Examples:

Although fairly hyperactive, the nephews are also clever and intelligent.

Among them are clever, dexterous, experienced, skillful, cunning and sly.

It was simultaneously clever and sensuous.

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clever

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: clever

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Common mistakes of clever pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Some learners incorrectly place stress on the second syllable, saying "cle-ver" instead of the correct "cle-ver". Tip: Remember that the primary stress is on the first syllable, as shown in IPA: /ˈklɛvər/ (US) and /ˈklɛvə/ (UK).
  2. Vowel confusion: The vowel sound in "clever" can be mispronounced. Some may say "cleever" with a long "e" sound. Tip: The correct vowel is a short "e" as in /ɛ/, not /iː/.
  3. Omitting the "r": In casual speech, some may drop the "r" sound at the end, saying "cleve" instead of "clever". Tip: Ensure to pronounce the "r" clearly, especially in American English, where it is more pronounced: /ˈklɛvər/.
  4. Incorrect vowel length: Learners might confuse the vowel length, saying "clay-ver" with a diphthong instead of the correct short vowel. Tip: Focus on the short "e" sound; practice saying it quickly to maintain the correct pronunciation.
  5. Overemphasizing syllables: Some may overly emphasize both syllables, making it sound choppy: "CLE-ver". Tip: Aim for a smooth flow, keeping the first syllable stressed while the second remains lighter: /ˈklɛvər/ (US) and /ˈklɛvə/ (UK).

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "clever"?

In American English, "clever" is pronounced as /ˈklɛvər/, with the stress on the first syllable. In British English, it is pronounced as /ˈklɛvə/, also with the stress on the first syllable, but the second syllable has a schwa sound.

What are the syllables in "clever"?

The word "clever" has two syllables: "clev" and "er." The first syllable is stressed, making it sound more prominent than the second.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "clever"?

Some learners may pronounce "clever" as /ˈklɛvɪr/, adding an unnecessary "i" sound in the second syllable. It's important to focus on the correct pronunciation to avoid confusion.

Is there a difference in pronunciation of "clever" in different regions?

While the primary pronunciation remains consistent, regional accents may slightly alter the vowel sounds. However, the overall structure of "clever" stays the same across various English-speaking regions.
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