Learn How to Pronounce figure

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figure

Definition:

(nou) a diagram or picture illustrating textual material (nou) alternative names for the body of a human being (nou) one of the elements that collectively form a system of numeration (nou) a model of a bodily form (especially of a person) (nou) a well-known or notable person (nou) a combination of points and lines and planes that form a visible palpable shape (nou) an amount of money expressed numerically (nou) the impression produced by a person (nou) the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals (nou) language used in a figurative or nonliteral sense (nou) a unitary percept having structure and coherence that is the object of attention and that stands out against a ground (nou) a decorative or artistic work (nou) a predetermined set of movements in dancing or skating

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈfɪɡə

Examples:

But the number is infinitesimal when compared to the previous figure.

The figure gives the number of the atoms in the unit cell.

The larger of the figures is the Boa Island bilateral figure.

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figure

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: figure

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Common mistakes of figure pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Some learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "fig-URE" instead of the correct "FIG-ure" (/ˈfɪɡ.jər/ in US and /ˈfɪɡ.ə/ in UK). Tip: Focus on emphasizing the first syllable to sound natural.
  2. Omitting the "g" sound: A common mistake is pronouncing "figure" as "fi-ure," dropping the "g" sound. This can lead to confusion. Tip: Ensure you pronounce the "g" clearly, as in /ˈfɪɡ.jər/ (US) or /ˈfɪɡ.ə/ (UK).
  3. Incorrect vowel sound: Some people pronounce "figure" with an "ee" sound, saying "fig-er" instead of the correct "fig-ure." The vowel should be a short "i" sound. Tip: Practice the "i" as in "sit" to get it right.
  4. Confusing "figure" with "figur": Learners sometimes mispronounce "figure" as "figur," treating it as a one-syllable word. This alters its meaning. Tip: Remember that "figure" has two syllables, pronounced as /ˈfɪɡ.jər/ (US) or /ˈfɪɡ.ə/ (UK).
  5. Overemphasizing the "u": Some may mistakenly pronounce "figure" with a strong "u" sound, resulting in "fig-you-er." This is incorrect. Tip: Keep the "u" sound soft and blend it with the preceding "g" for clarity.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "figure" in American English?

In American English, "figure" is pronounced as /ˈfɪɡjər/. The primary stress is on the first syllable, "fig," which sounds like "fig" in "fig tree."

What is the pronunciation of "figure" in British English?

In British English, "figure" is pronounced as /ˈfɪɡə/. The stress remains on the first syllable, similar to the American pronunciation, but the ending sounds more like "uh."

Does "figure" have a schwa sound in its pronunciation?

Yes, "figure" contains a schwa sound in its second syllable when pronounced as /ˈfɪɡjər/ in American English and /ˈfɪɡə/ in British English. The schwa is represented by the "e" in the second syllable, making it less stressed and more relaxed.

Are there common mistakes when pronouncing "figure"?

One common mistake is misplacing the stress on the second syllable, which can make the word sound unnatural. Remember to emphasize the first syllable, "fig," to pronounce "figure" correctly.
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