Learn How to Pronounce local

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local

Definition:

(nou) public transport consisting of a bus or train that stops at all stations or stops (nou) anesthetic that numbs a particular area of the body

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈləʊkəl

Examples:

The local amusement community opposed the city.

The community courts work on the basis of the area, the local rules and customs.

The city is renowned for the local industry.

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local

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: local

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Common mistakes of local pronunciation

  1. Misplacing the stress: Some learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "lo-CAL" instead of "LO-cal". Tip: Remember to emphasize the first syllable, as in /ˈloʊ.kəl/ (US) or /ˈləʊ.kəl/ (UK).
  2. Overemphasizing the vowel sound: A common mistake is pronouncing the "o" in "local" as a long vowel, like "loh-kal". Tip: Use a short "o" sound, as in /ˈloʊ.kəl/ (US) or /ˈləʊ.kəl/ (UK).
  3. Dropping the final sound: Some people may omit the "l" at the end, pronouncing it as "lo-ca". Tip: Ensure to articulate the final "l" clearly, which is crucial for correct pronunciation.
  4. Incorrect vowel sound in the second syllable: Learners might say "lo-cal" with a long "a" sound. Tip: Use a schwa sound for the second syllable, as in /ˈloʊ.kəl/ (US) or /ˈləʊ.kəl/ (UK).
  5. Confusing with similar words: Some confuse "local" with "locale," leading to mispronunciation. Tip: Pay attention to the context and pronunciation differences, focusing on the stress pattern in "local" /ˈloʊ.kəl/ (US) or /ˈləʊ.kəl/ (UK).

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "local" in American English?

In American English, "local" is pronounced as /ˈloʊ.kəl/. The stress is on the first syllable, which sounds like "loh," followed by a softer "kəl."

What is the British pronunciation of "local"?

In British English, "local" is pronounced as /ˈləʊ.kəl/. The first syllable is stressed as "loh," similar to the American version, but the vowel sound is different, sounding more like "low."

Does "local" have a schwa sound?

Yes, in "local," the second syllable contains a schwa sound, represented as "kəl." This means it is pronounced quickly and lightly, making it less emphasized than the first syllable.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "local"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress on the second syllable, saying "lo-KAL" instead of "LO-cal." Remember to keep the emphasis on the first syllable to pronounce it correctly.
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