Learn How to Pronounce hour
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How to pronounce:
hour
Definition:
(nou) a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day (nou) clock time (nou) a special and memorable period (nou) distance measured by the time taken to cover it
Phonetic Transcription:
ˈaʊə
Examples:
The plane departed an hour ago.
The paitient was required to ambulate for an hour a day.
Simultaneous doesn't mean the same day and the same hour.
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How to perfect your pronunciation of: hour
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Common mistakes of hour pronunciation
- Misplacing the "h": Some learners pronounce "hour" with an initial "h" sound, saying "h"our. This is incorrect as "hour" starts with a silent "h" in both US and UK English, IPA: /ˈaʊər/. Tip: Remember, the "h" is silent; focus on the vowel sound.
- Incorrect vowel sound: Many mispronounce "hour" by using a short vowel sound, as in "h"it. The correct pronunciation uses the diphthong sound /aʊ/, as in "b"ow. Tip: Practice saying "b"ow to get comfortable with the correct vowel sound.
- Stressing the second syllable: Some learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "h"our. In both US and UK pronunciations, the primary stress is on the first syllable, IPA: /ˈaʊər/. Tip: Emphasize the first syllable to sound more natural.
- Adding an extra syllable: A common mistake is to add an extra syllable, pronouncing it as "h"our-uh. The correct pronunciation is a single syllable, IPA: /ˈaʊər/. Tip: Focus on keeping it short and smooth; it should sound like one fluid word.
- Confusing with "our": Some confuse "hour" with "our," pronouncing them the same. However, "our" has a different sound, IPA: /aʊər/. Tip: Distinguish them by practicing in sentences to reinforce their unique pronunciations.