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contradiction

Definition:

(nou) opposition between two conflicting forces or ideas (nou) a statement that is necessarily false (nou) the speech act of contradicting someone

Phonetic Transcription:

ˌkɒntrəˈdɪkʃən

Examples:

Bluntness and compromise to avoid conflict seems to be a contradiction.

In contradiction, there is the admonition to 'be bold'.

The contradiction is particularly flagrant.

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contradiction

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Common mistakes of contradiction pronunciation

  1. Stress placement: Some may incorrectly stress the second syllable as in "con-tra-DIC-tion". In both US and UK English, the primary stress is on the third syllable: /ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ (UK) and /ˌkɑn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ (US). Tip: Focus on the "dic" part to emphasize it correctly.
  2. Vowel sounds: Mispronouncing the vowel in the first syllable as "o" instead of "ɒ" or "ɑ" can lead to confusion. The correct pronunciation is /ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ (UK) and /ˌkɑn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ (US). Tip: Practice saying "con" like "con" in "contest".
  3. Syllable count: Some learners may pronounce "contradiction" with only three syllables, such as "con-tra-dic-tion". The correct pronunciation has four syllables: /ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ (UK) and /ˌkɑn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ (US). Tip: Break it down into "con-tra-dic-tion" to ensure all syllables are included.
  4. Final "tion" sound: The ending "tion" is often mispronounced as "shun" instead of the correct /ʃən/. This sound is crucial for proper pronunciation in both US and UK English. Tip: Practice saying "tion" like "shun" in "caution" to get it right.
  5. Linking sounds: Some speakers may omit the linking sound between "con" and "tra", making it sound choppy. The correct pronunciation smoothly connects the syllables: /ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ (UK) and /ˌkɑn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ (US). Tip: Say "con" and "tra" together quickly to improve fluency.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "contradiction" in American English?

In American English, "contradiction" is pronounced as /ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/. The stress is on the third syllable, "dic," which is pronounced with a short "i" sound, like "dick."

What is the British pronunciation of "contradiction"?

In British English, "contradiction" is pronounced as /ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən/ as well, with the same stress pattern. The pronunciation is quite similar to the American version, emphasizing the "dic" syllable.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "contradiction"?

One common mistake is misplacing the stress, often placing it on the second syllable instead of the third. Remember to stress the "dic" syllable to pronounce "contradiction" correctly.

How many syllables are in the word "contradiction"?

The word "contradiction" has five syllables: "con-tra-dic-tion." Each syllable should be pronounced clearly to ensure proper understanding.
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