Learn How to Pronounce obligation

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obligation

Definition:

(nou) the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force- John (nou) the state of being obligated to do or pay something (nou) a personal relation in which one is indebted for a service or favor (nou) a written promise to repay a debt (nou) a legal agreement specifying a payment or action and the penalty for failure to comply

Phonetic Transcription:

ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃən

Examples:

Absenteeism is a habitual pattern of absence from a duty or obligation.

The distinguishing obligation of a fiduciary is the obligation of loyalty.

The obligation is to live by the policies.

Learn more about:
obligation

Related Words:

responsibility

duty

mission

How to perfect your pronunciation of: obligation

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Common mistakes of obligation pronunciation

Stress placement: Many learners place stress on the second syllable, saying "ob-li-ˈga-tion" instead of the correct "ˈob-li-ga-tion". Tip: Remember to stress the first syllable for proper pronunciation.
Vowel sounds: Some pronounce the "o" in "obligation" as a long "o" sound, saying "ōb-lə-ˈga-tion". The correct pronunciation is with a short "o" sound as in "ˈɒb-lɪ-ɡeɪ-ʃən" (UK) or "ɑːb-lɪ-ˈɡeɪ-ʃən" (US). Tip: Focus on the short vowel sound for accuracy.
Final "tion" sound: A common mistake is mispronouncing the "tion" ending as "shun" instead of the correct "ʃən". Some say "ob-li-ˈga-shun". Tip: Practice saying "ʃən" to ensure the ending is pronounced correctly.
Syllable reduction: Some speakers may reduce the unstressed syllables too much, making "obligation" sound like "obli-gay-shun". The proper pronunciation maintains clear syllables: "ˈob-li-ɡeɪ-ʃən". Tip: Keep all syllables distinct to enhance clarity.
Overemphasis on consonants: Learners sometimes overemphasize the "g" in "obligation", making it sound harsh, as in "ob-li-ˈga-tion". The correct pronunciation softens the "g", as in "ˈob-li-ɡeɪ-ʃən". Tip: Ensure a smooth transition between sounds for better flow.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "obligation" in American English?

In American English, "obligation" is pronounced as /ˌɑː.blɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/. The stress is on the third syllable, "ga," which sounds like "gay."

What is the British pronunciation of "obligation"?

In British English, "obligation" is pronounced as /ˌɒb.lɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/. The primary stress is still on the third syllable, similar to the American version, but the vowel sounds differ slightly.

How many syllables are in the word "obligation"?

The word "obligation" has four syllables: "ob-li-ga-tion." You can break it down to help with pronunciation, focusing on the stressed syllable for clarity.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "obligation"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, saying "OB-li-ga-tion" instead of "ob-li-'GA-tion." Remember, the correct stress is on the "ga" syllable to sound natural.