Learn How to Pronounce lean

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lean

Definition:

(nou) the property possessed by a line or surface that departs from the vertical

Phonetic Transcription:

liːn

Examples:

The rider can grab the side of the board while crouching and lean uphill.

Passengers lean over the rails.

The doubt is lean in the value of this article.

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: lean

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Break lean down into individual sounds such as liːn. Practice these parts before you learn to say the whole word.

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Common mistakes of lean pronunciation

  1. Misplacing vowel sounds: Some may pronounce "lean" as /lɪn/ instead of /lin/. This mistake often comes from confusing the vowel sound with that in "pin." Tip: Focus on producing a long "ee" sound as in "see."
  2. Incorrect stress placement: "Lean" is a single-syllable word and should be pronounced with the primary stress on the vowel sound /lin/. Some learners may wrongly emphasize the "l" sound. Tip: Practice saying "lean" clearly, emphasizing the vowel.
  3. Overemphasizing the "n" sound: A common error is to pronounce "lean" with a heavy "n," making it sound like /lin/. This can happen when learners try to articulate too strongly. Tip: Keep the "n" light and quick.
  4. Confusing with similar words: Learners might mix up "lean" with "line" or "lien," leading to mispronunciation. "Lean" is pronounced /lin/, while "line" is /laɪn/. Tip: Pay attention to the vowel sounds to differentiate between these words.
  5. Dropping the vowel sound: Some may unintentionally drop the vowel, saying "ln" instead of "lean." This can occur in fast speech. Tip: Slow down your pronunciation to ensure every sound is articulated, especially the vowel.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "lean" in American English?

In American English, "lean" is pronounced as /lin/ with the vowel sound similar to the "ee" in "see." The stress is on the single syllable, making it straightforward to say.

Is there a difference in how "lean" is pronounced in British English?

In British English, "lean" is also pronounced /liːn/, with a long "ee" sound. The pronunciation remains consistent with American English, emphasizing the same single syllable.

What are some common mistakes when pronouncing "lean"?

A common mistake is mispronouncing "lean" as /lɛn/, which sounds like "len." This error involves using a short "e" sound instead of the correct long "ee" sound.

Does "lean" have any homophones or minimal pairs?

Yes, "lean" has a homophone, "leen," which is a less common variant of the same pronunciation /lin/. Both words sound the same but may have different meanings depending on the context.
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