Learn How to Pronounce interest

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interest

Definition:

(nou) a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something (nou) a reason for wanting something done (nou) the power of attracting or holding one's attention (because it is unusual or exciting etc.) (nou) a fixed charge for borrowing money; usually a percentage of the amount borrowed (nou) a right or legal share of something; a financial involvement with something (nou) a social group whose members control some field of activity and who have common aims (nou) a diversion that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly)

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈɪntrəst

Examples:

Lots of interest and curiosity in the topic outside of Japanophiles.

Of the votes to abstain, one expressed an interest in the topic.

His interest is not in the integrity of the game or improving the officiating.

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interest

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: interest

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Common mistakes of interest pronunciation

  1. Stress placement: Many people incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "in-ˈter-est". The correct pronunciation has primary stress on the first syllable: "ˈɪn.tə.rest" (UK) and "ˈɪn.tə.rest" (US). Tip: Focus on emphasizing "IN" to ensure clarity.
  2. Vowel sound confusion: Some might pronounce "interest" with a short "i" sound, like "ˈɪn.trɪst". The correct pronunciation uses a schwa in the second syllable: "ˈɪn.tə.rest". Tip: Practice saying the second syllable quickly to achieve the schwa sound.
  3. Omitting the second syllable: A common mistake is to reduce "interest" to just two syllables, saying "ˈɪn.trɛst". This omits the proper middle sound. The correct form has three syllables. Tip: Break the word into parts: "IN-ter-est".
  4. Mispronouncing the final "t": Some speakers may soften the "t" at the end, saying "ˈɪn.tə.res". The final "t" should be clear and crisp. Tip: Practice saying "interest" slowly, ensuring you articulate the "t".
  5. Incorrect syllable count: People often say "interest" as if it were a two-syllable word, like "ˈɪn.trest". However, it has three syllables: "ˈɪn.tə.rest". Tip: Count the syllables on your fingers as you say the word to reinforce the correct pronunciation.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "interest" in American English?

In American English, "interest" is pronounced as /ˈɪn.trɪst/. The first syllable has primary stress, making it sound like "IN-trist."

What is the British pronunciation of "interest"?

In British English, "interest" is pronounced as /ˈɪn.trəst/. The second syllable has a schwa sound, making it sound like "IN-trəst."

How many syllables are in the word "interest"?

The word "interest" has three syllables: "in," "ter," and "est." It is important to note the stress pattern when pronouncing it correctly.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "interest"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, saying "IN-ter-est" instead of "IN-trist" or "IN-trəst." Be mindful of the correct syllable emphasis to sound more natural.
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