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familiar

Definition:

(nou) a person attached to the household of a high official (as a pope or bishop) who renders service in return for support (nou) a friend who is frequently in the company of another (nou) a spirit (usually in animal form) that acts as an assistant to a witch or wizard

Phonetic Transcription:

fəˈmɪlɪə

Examples:

Another familiar caustic is the rainbow.

Are you familiar with any of the rovers

Dangdut music is familiar with the rabble.

Learn more about:
familiar

Related Words:

know

How to perfect your pronunciation of: familiar

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Common mistakes of familiar pronunciation

Stress placement: Many learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "fa-MIL-iar" instead of "fa-MIL-i-ar" (US: /fəˈmɪl.jər/, UK: /fəˈmɪl.i.ə/). Tip: Remember to stress the "MIL" syllable for clarity.
Vowel sounds: Some mispronounce the first syllable, saying "fa-MIL-yar" with an added "y" sound. The correct pronunciation is "fa-MIL-i-ar" (US: /fəˈmɪl.jər/, UK: /fəˈmɪl.i.ə/). Tip: Focus on the "i" sound in the third syllable.
Syllable count: A common mistake is reducing the syllable count to two, pronouncing it as "fa-MIL-ar." The word has three syllables: "fa-MIL-i-ar" (US: /fəˈmɪl.jər/, UK: /fəˈmɪl.i.ə/). Tip: Break it down into three parts for better pronunciation.
Final "r" sound: In American English, learners might drop the "r" at the end, saying "fa-MIL-i-ah." The correct ending is "fa-MIL-i-ar" (US: /fəˈmɪl.jər/, UK: /fəˈmɪl.i.ə/). Tip: Practice the "r" sound to ensure it's pronounced clearly.
Linking sounds: Some speakers struggle with the transition between syllables, making it sound choppy. The smooth flow is essential in "fa-MIL-i-ar" (US: /fəˈmɪl.jər/, UK: /fəˈmɪl.i.ə/). Tip: Practice saying the word slowly, emphasizing the connections between syllables.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "familiar" in American English?

In American English, "familiar" is pronounced as /fəˈmɪl.jər/. The primary stress is on the second syllable, "mil", and the "a" is pronounced as a schwa sound, making it sound like "fuh-MIL-yur."

What is the British pronunciation of "familiar"?

In British English, "familiar" is pronounced as /fəˈmɪl.i.ə/. Similar to American English, the stress is on the second syllable, but the final "ar" is pronounced as "ə," sounding like "fuh-MIL-ee-uh."

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "familiar"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, often saying "fa-MIL-iar" instead of "fuh-MIL-yur." Remember to focus on the second syllable for correct pronunciation.

What syllables are in the word "familiar"?

The word "familiar" has four syllables: "fa," "mil," "i," and "ar." It is important to pronounce each syllable clearly, especially the stressed "mil."