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How to pronounce:
material
Definition:
(nou) the tangible substance that goes into the makeup of a physical object (nou) information (data or ideas or observations) that can be used or reworked into a finished form (nou) artifact made by weaving or felting or knitting or crocheting natural or synthetic fibers (nou) things needed for doing or making something (nou) a person judged suitable for admission or employment
Phonetic Transcription:
məˈtɪərɪəl
Examples:
The material was made to affix items on the floor.
I also object to the blanket removal of all the material.
In use, the chisel is forced into the material to cut the material.
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How to perfect your pronunciation of: material
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Common mistakes of material pronunciation
- Stress placement: Many learners mistakenly stress the second syllable, saying "ma-ˈter-i-al". The correct stress is on the third syllable: "mə-ˈtɪr-i-əl" (US) / "mə-ˈtɪə-ri-əl" (UK). Tip: Practice saying "material" slowly, emphasizing the "tɪr" or "tɪə" syllable.
- Vowel sound confusion: Some people confuse the vowel sounds, pronouncing "material" as "ma-ˈtɪr-əl". The correct pronunciation includes a schwa sound in the last syllable: "mə-ˈtɪr-i-əl" (US) / "mə-ˈtɪə-ri-əl" (UK). Tip: Focus on the relaxed sound of the last syllable.
- Incorrect syllable division: Learners often break "material" into too many syllables, saying "ma-ter-i-al". The word has four syllables, with the correct division being "ma-te-ri-al". Tip: Clap for each syllable to reinforce the correct division.
- Overemphasizing consonants: Some speakers overemphasize the "t" in "material", making it sound harsh. The "t" should be clear but not overly stressed: "mə-ˈtɪr-i-əl" (US) / "mə-ˈtɪə-ri-əl" (UK). Tip: Say the word softly at first to find a balanced sound.
- Mispronouncing the "r": In some accents, the "r" in "material" is mispronounced or omitted altogether, leading to "ma-ˈtɪ-i-al". The "r" should be pronounced clearly: "mə-ˈtɪr-i-əl" (US) / "mə-ˈtɪə-ri-əl" (UK). Tip: Practice with words that have a similar "r" sound to improve clarity.