Learn How to Pronounce curtain

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curtain

Definition:

(nou) hanging cloth used as a blind (especially for a window) (nou) any barrier to communication or vision

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈkɜːtən

Examples:

The curtain is spotted.

The curtain was decorated by a fringe.

The curtain was lined by the maid.

Learn more about:
curtain

Related Words:

cushion

How to perfect your pronunciation of: curtain

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Common mistakes of curtain pronunciation

Misplacing the stress: Many learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, pronouncing "curtain" as /kərˈtɪn/. The correct stress is on the first syllable: /ˈkɜːr.tən/ (UK) and /ˈkɜr.tən/ (US). Tip: Remember to emphasize the first syllable.
Vowel sound confusion: Some may pronounce "curtain" with an incorrect vowel sound, saying /ˈkɜːr.tɪn/. The correct vowel in the first syllable is a long "er" sound: /ˈkɜːr/ (UK) and /ˈkɜr/ (US). Tip: Practice the "er" sound to distinguish it clearly.
Missing the final "t": A common mistake is to drop the "t" sound, pronouncing "curtain" as /ˈkɜːr.ən/. The final "t" should be pronounced clearly: /ˈkɜːr.tən/ (UK) and /ˈkɜr.tən/ (US). Tip: Focus on articulating the "t" at the end of the word.
Overemphasizing the "r": Some learners might overly stress the "r" in "curtain," leading to a pronunciation like /ˈkɜːr.tɪn/. The "r" should be subtle. Tip: Try to soften the "r" to maintain the natural flow of the word.
Incorrect syllable division: Some may mistakenly divide "curtain" into two syllables as "cur-tin" /ˈkɜːr.tɪn/. The correct division is "cur-tain" /ˈkɜːr.tən/ (UK) and /ˈkɜr.tən/ (US). Tip: Practice saying the word as one smooth unit.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "curtain" in American English?

In American English, "curtain" is pronounced as /ˈkɜr.tən/. The first syllable has the primary stress, and the "u" is pronounced like the "er" in "her."

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

Yes, in British English, "curtain" is pronounced as /ˈkɜː.tən/, where the vowel sound in the first syllable is longer compared to the American pronunciation. Both versions maintain the same stress pattern.

What is the syllable breakdown for the word "curtain"?

The word "curtain" has two syllables: "cur" and "tain." It is broken down as /ˈkɜr.tən/ in American English and /ˈkɜː.tən/ in British English.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "curtain"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress on the second syllable, which should be on the first syllable instead. Additionally, some learners may pronounce the "t" too softly, making it sound like "curin."