Learn How to Pronounce courtesy
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How to pronounce:
courtesy
Definition:
(nou) a courteous or respectful or considerate act (nou) a courteous or respectful or considerate remark (nou) a courteous manner
Phonetic Transcription:
ˈkɜːtəsi
Examples:
The boy was required to behave with courtesy.
The image is courtesy of the Associated Press.
The measure means courtesy and forbearance.
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Common mistakes of courtesy pronunciation
- Misplacing the stress: Many learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "cour-"ˈ"te" instead of the correct "cour-"ˈ"te" -sy. Tip: Remember that the primary stress is on the first syllable: /ˈkɜːrtəsi/ (US), /ˈkɔːtəsi/ (UK).
- Overemphasizing the "t": Some people pronounce "courtesy" with a strong "t" sound, like "cour-te-sy". This can lead to confusion. Tip: The "t" in "courtesy" is soft and blends into the following syllable, making it sound more like /ˈkɜːrtəsi/ (US), /ˈkɔːtəsi/ (UK).
- Skipping the "e": Learners often drop the "e" in "courtesy," pronouncing it as "courtsy." This alters the meaning. Tip: Always include the "e" sound, ensuring you articulate /ˈkɜːrtəsi/ (US), /ˈkɔːtəsi/ (UK) clearly.
- Incorrect vowel sound: Some pronounce "courtesy" with a short "u" sound, like "kur-tuh-see." This is incorrect. Tip: Use the correct vowel sound, which is more like /ɜː/ in the first syllable for US and UK pronunciations.
- Mispronouncing the final "y": A common mistake is pronouncing "y" as a long "ee" sound, saying "courtesy" like "cour-tea-see." Tip: Remember that the "y" is pronounced as a short "i" sound, leading to /ˈkɜːrtəsi/ (US), /ˈkɔːtəsi/ (UK).