Learn How to Pronounce pearl

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pearl

Definition:

(nou) a smooth lustrous round structure inside the shell of a clam or oyster; much valued as a jewel (nou) a shade of white the color of bleached bones (nou) a shape that is spherical and small

Phonetic Transcription:

pɜːl

Examples:

The freckles on homozygous pearls and pearl creams are pale and muted.

The size, luster and form of the pearl distinguishes it from other pearls.

The pearl gourami is an omnivore.

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pearl

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: pearl

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Break pearl down into individual sounds such as pɜːl. Practice these parts before you learn to say the whole word.

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Common mistakes of pearl pronunciation

  1. Mispronouncing the vowel sound: Many learners pronounce "pearl" with a short "e" sound, like "purl." The correct pronunciation is /pɜrl/ in US English and /pɜːl/ in UK English. Tip: Focus on the "er" sound, which is pronounced like "ur" in "burn."
  2. Omitting the "r" sound: Some may drop the "r" in "pearl," saying "peel" instead. This changes the meaning entirely. The "r" is crucial for the correct pronunciation /pɜrl/ (US) and /pɜːl/ (UK). Tip: Make sure to articulate the "r" clearly.
  3. Incorrect stress placement: Learners sometimes stress the wrong syllable, saying "PEAR-l" instead of the correct pronunciation, which has no syllable stress distinction. The word is pronounced as a single syllable /pɜrl/ (US) and /pɜːl/ (UK). Tip: Remember that "pearl" is one syllable, so no additional stress is needed.
  4. Confusing with similar words: Some confuse "pearl" with "purl," a knitting term. Both words sound similar, but "pearl" has a distinct vowel sound /pɜrl/ (US) and /pɜːl/ (UK). Tip: Practice differentiating the vowel sounds to avoid confusion.
  5. Overemphasizing the "l" sound: Learners might overpronounce the "l" at the end of "pearl," making it sound like "pearl-l." The correct pronunciation ends smoothly with /pɜrl/ (US) and /pɜːl/ (UK). Tip: Keep the "l" subtle and blend it into the end of the word.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "pearl" in American English?

In American English, "pearl" is pronounced as /pɜrl/. The vowel sound is similar to the "er" in "her," and the "r" is pronounced clearly.

What is the UK pronunciation of "pearl"?

In British English, "pearl" is pronounced as /pɜːl/. The main difference is that the vowel sound is slightly longer, resembling the "ur" in "fur."

Does "pearl" have any silent letters?

No, "pearl" does not have any silent letters. Each letter in "pearl" is pronounced, with the "p," "e," "a," "r," and "l" all contributing to the sound.

What are some common mistakes when pronouncing "pearl"?

A common mistake is mispronouncing "pearl" as /pɪrl/, using a short "e" sound instead of the correct /pɜrl/. It's important to focus on the "er" sound to avoid confusion with words like "peril."
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