Learn How to Pronounce expect

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expect

Phonetic Transcription:

ɪkˈspekt

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expect

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: expect

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Common mistakes of expect pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Many learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "ex-ˈpect" instead of the correct "ˈexpect". Tip: Remember that the primary stress is on the first syllable, "ex".
  2. Missing the vowel sound: Some pronounce "expect" as "xpect", omitting the initial vowel sound. This leads to confusion. Tip: Ensure you pronounce the "e" in "expect" clearly to distinguish it.
  3. Incorrect vowel pronunciation: The "e" in "expect" can be mispronounced as a short "e" sound, similar to "bed". The correct pronunciation is a more open "e" sound, as in "bet". Tip: Practice saying "ex" as in "excellent" to get the right sound.
  4. Overemphasizing the final consonant: Some speakers may pronounce "expect" with too much emphasis on the "t", making it sound clipped. The correct pronunciation should flow smoothly. Tip: Focus on a softer "t" sound to maintain the word's rhythm.
  5. Confusing with similar words: Learners sometimes confuse "expect" with "except", leading to mispronunciation. "Expect" is pronounced "ˈɛk.spɛkt", while "except" is "ɪkˈsɛpt". Tip: Pay attention to the initial syllables to differentiate between the two.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "expect" in American English?

In American English, "expect" is pronounced as /ɪkˈspɛkt/. The primary stress is on the second syllable, "spect," which sounds like "specked."

What is the British pronunciation of "expect"?

In British English, "expect" is also pronounced as /ɪkˈspɛkt/, similar to American English. The stress remains on the second syllable, making it consistent across both dialects.

Is there a schwa sound in "expect"?

Yes, "expect" contains a schwa sound in the first syllable, pronounced as /ɪk/. The "e" is not stressed, which is common in many English words.

What are some common mistakes when pronouncing "expect"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, such as saying /ˈɛkspɛkt/ instead of /ɪkˈspɛkt/. It's important to emphasize the second syllable to pronounce it correctly.
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