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dictation

Definition:

(nou) an authoritative direction or instruction to do something (nou) speech intended for reproduction in writing (nou) matter that has been dictated and transcribed; a dictated passage

Phonetic Transcription:

dɪkˈteɪʃən

Examples:

The policeman testifies that he saw the reporter make the dictation.

In the play, no such dictation scene exists.

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Common mistakes of dictation pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Some learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "dic-ˈta-tion". The correct stress is on the third syllable: "dɪkˈteɪʃən" (US) / "dɪkˈteɪʃən" (UK). Tip: Focus on the "ta" part to emphasize it correctly.
  2. Vowel confusion: Many people mispronounce the first vowel as "e" instead of "ɪ", saying "deek-tation". The correct pronunciation is "dɪk" (US/UK). Tip: Practice saying "sit" to help with the "ɪ" sound.
  3. Overemphasizing "t": Some might exaggerate the "t" sound, saying "dicta-tion" with a strong "t". The correct pronunciation is "dɪkˈteɪʃən" (US) / "dɪkˈteɪʃən" (UK) with a softer "t". Tip: Keep the "t" subtle and fluid.
  4. Dropping the final syllable: A common mistake is omitting the last syllable, pronouncing it as "dicta". The full word is "dɪkˈteɪʃən" (US/UK). Tip: Always finish with the "shən" to complete the word.
  5. Incorrect vowel length: Learners may pronounce the "a" in "ta" as a short vowel, saying "dɪkˈtæʃən". The correct pronunciation is with a long "a": "dɪkˈteɪʃən" (US) / "dɪkˈteɪʃən" (UK). Tip: Practice elongating the "a" sound for clarity.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "dictation" in American English?

In American English, "dictation" is pronounced as /dɪkˈteɪʃən/. The primary stress is on the second syllable, "ta," which sounds like "tay."

What is the British pronunciation of "dictation"?

In British English, "dictation" is pronounced the same way as in American English, /dɪkˈteɪʃən/. The stress pattern remains consistent, with the emphasis on the second syllable.

How many syllables are in the word "dictation"?

The word "dictation" has three syllables: "dic," "ta," and "tion." It is broken down phonetically as /dɪkˈteɪʃən/, with the "tion" sounding like "shun."

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "dictation"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, such as placing it on the first syllable instead of the second. Remember to emphasize "ta" as in /dɪkˈteɪʃən/ to pronounce "dictation" correctly.
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