Learn How to Pronounce positive

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positive

Definition:

(nou) the primary form of an adjective or adverb; denotes a quality without qualification, comparison, or relation to increase or diminution (nou) a film showing a photographic image whose tones correspond to those of the original subject

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈpɒzətɪv

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Common mistakes of positive pronunciation

  1. Incorrect vowel sound: Some learners pronounce "positive" with a short "o" sound as in "hot" (/hɑt/). This is incorrect; the correct pronunciation is with a long "o" sound, as in /ˈpɒzɪtɪv/ (UK) and /ˈpɑːzɪtɪv/ (US). Tip: Focus on elongating the "o" sound.
  2. Misplaced stress: A common mistake is placing stress on the second syllable, saying "po-SI-tive." The correct stress is on the first syllable: "PO-si-tive" (/ˈpɒzɪtɪv/ for UK and /ˈpɑːzɪtɪv/ for US). Tip: Emphasize the first syllable when pronouncing the word.
  3. Overpronouncing the "t": Some may exaggerate the "t" sound in "positive," making it sound like "posi-tive." The "t" should be soft and quick. The correct pronunciation is /ˈpɒzɪtɪv/ (UK) and /ˈpɑːzɪtɪv/ (US). Tip: Keep the "t" subtle and fluid.
  4. Dropping the "i": Learners might omit the "i" sound, pronouncing it as "poz-tive." The "i" is essential for clarity and should be pronounced clearly as /ˈpɒzɪtɪv/ (UK) and /ˈpɑːzɪtɪv/ (US). Tip: Make sure to include the "i" for correct pronunciation.
  5. Confusing with "positive": Some might confuse "positive" with "posit," pronouncing it incorrectly. "Positive" should have three syllables, while "posit" has two. The correct form is /ˈpɒzɪtɪv/ (UK) and /ˈpɑːzɪtɪv/ (US). Tip: Remember the three-syllable structure for "positive."

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "positive" in American English?

In American English, "positive" is pronounced as /ˈpɑːzɪtɪv/. The stress is on the first syllable, which sounds like "pah" and the second syllable has a short "z" sound.

What is the British English pronunciation of "positive"?

In British English, "positive" is pronounced as /ˈpɒzɪtɪv/. The first syllable sounds like "poh," and it has a slightly different vowel sound compared to the American pronunciation.

What are the syllables in the word "positive"?

The word "positive" has three syllables: "pos," "i," and "tive." Each syllable is pronounced clearly, with the first syllable receiving the primary stress.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "positive"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, often pronouncing it as /pəˈzɪtɪv/, which shifts the emphasis to the second syllable. Remember to stress the first syllable for correct pronunciation: /ˈpɑːzɪtɪv/ in American English and /ˈpɒzɪtɪv/ in British English.
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