Learn How to Pronounce minute

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minute

Definition:

(nou) a unit of time equal to 60 seconds or 1/60th of an hour (nou) an indefinitely short time (nou) a particular point in time (nou) a unit of angular distance equal to a 60th of a degree (nou) a short note (nou) distance measured by the time taken to cover it

Phonetic Transcription:

maɪˈnjuːt

Examples:

It's in the first minute of the interview.

The change of the plan is minute.

Stop for a minute and listen to the realist.

Learn more about:
minute

Related Words:

moment

little

small

How to perfect your pronunciation of: minute

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Common mistakes of minute pronunciation

Mispronouncing as "min-it": Some speakers pronounce "minute" with two syllables, as in "min-it" /ˈmɪn.ɪt/ (US). This is incorrect when referring to time. Tip: Remember that "minute" as time has one syllable, pronounced /ˈmɪn.uːt/ (UK).
Confusing with "minute" meaning small: The word "minute" can also mean tiny, pronounced /mɪˈnjuːt/ (UK). Some may mix these meanings and pronunciations. Tip: Context matters; focus on the usage to choose the correct pronunciation.
Incorrect stress placement: Some people incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "mi-NUTE" /mɪˈnjuːt/. The correct pronunciation has the primary stress on the first syllable. Tip: Always emphasize the first syllable: "MIN-ute" /ˈmɪn.uːt/.
Overemphasizing the "u": In "minute," some speakers may over-pronounce the "u," making it sound like "min-yoote." This is incorrect. Tip: Keep the "u" sound subtle and smooth, focusing on the first syllable.
Ignoring regional variations: Some may not recognize that "minute" can have different pronunciations depending on the region, such as /ˈmɪn.ɪt/ (US) versus /ˈmɪn.uːt/ (UK). Tip: Familiarize yourself with both pronunciations to enhance understanding and communication.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "minute" in American English?

In American English, "minute" is pronounced as /ˈmɪnɪt/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "i" sounds like the short vowel in "sit," and the "u" is pronounced as a schwa, sounding like "it."

What is the British pronunciation of "minute"?

In British English, "minute" can be pronounced as /ˈmɪnɪt/ or /mɪˈnjuːt/, depending on whether it refers to time or a small measurement. The first pronunciation is similar to American English, while the second has the stress on the second syllable, with a "yoo" sound.

Is there a difference in syllables when saying "minute"?

"Minute" has two syllables regardless of the pronunciation: /ˈmɪnɪt/ or /mɪˈnjuːt/. The first syllable "min" is stressed in both cases, making it easy to remember.

What are common mistakes when pronouncing "minute"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, especially in British English, where some might incorrectly stress the first syllable in both meanings. Additionally, some learners might confuse it with the word "minute" meaning tiny, which has the stress on the second syllable.