Learn How to Pronounce metaphor
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How to pronounce:
metaphor
Definition:
(nou) a figure of speech in which an expression is used to refer to something that it does not literally denote in order to suggest a similarity
Phonetic Transcription:
ˈmetəfə
Examples:
Metonymy compared to metaphor in cognitive science and linguistics.
The rainbow inspires metaphor and simile.
The table shows the general metaphor.
Learn more about:metaphor
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How to perfect your pronunciation of: metaphor
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Common mistakes of metaphor pronunciation
- Stress placement: Many learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "me-TA-phor". The correct stress is on the first syllable: /ˈmɛt.ə.fɔr/ (US) or /ˈmɛt.ə.fɔː/ (UK). Tip: Remember to emphasize the first syllable.
- Vowel sound confusion: Some may pronounce "metaphor" with a short "e" sound, like "metaphor". The correct pronunciation features a schwa in the second syllable: /ˈmɛt.ə.fɔr/ (US) or /ˈmɛt.ə.fɔː/ (UK). Tip: Practice the schwa sound, which is softer and quicker.
- Ending sound: A common mistake is to pronounce the last syllable as "for" with a clear "r" sound, as in "metaphor". In American English, it should sound more like "fɔr" (US) or "fɔː" (UK) without a strong "r" at the end. Tip: Focus on softening the "r" sound.
- Overemphasizing syllables: Some people may pronounce "metaphor" with an exaggerated rhythm, stressing each syllable equally. The correct rhythm emphasizes the first syllable more than the others. Tip: Practice saying the word smoothly, focusing on the first syllable.
- Mispronouncing the "th" sound: A few may confuse the "th" in "metaphor" with a "d" sound, saying "medaphor". The correct pronunciation includes the "t" sound: /ˈmɛt.ə.fɔr/ (US) or /ˈmɛt.ə.fɔː/ (UK). Tip: Pay attention to the "t" sound and avoid substituting it.