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How to pronounce:
problem
Definition:
(nou) a state of difficulty that needs to be resolved (nou) a question raised for consideration or solution (nou) a source of difficulty
Phonetic Transcription:
ˈprɒbləm
Examples:
The cause of the problem is included in the question.
The problem is the wording of the question.
It was the problem that caused the glitch.
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How to perfect your pronunciation of: problem
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Common mistakes of problem pronunciation
- Stress placement: Some learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "pro-'BLEM" instead of the correct "'PROB-lem". Tip: Remember to emphasize the first syllable for clarity: /ˈprɒb.ləm/ (UK), /ˈprɑː.bləm/ (US).
- Vowel sound confusion: Many people mispronounce the first vowel, using a long "o" sound as in "pro". The correct sound is a short "o" as in "pot". Tip: Practice saying "ah" to get the right vowel: /ˈprɒb.ləm/ (UK), /ˈprɑː.bləm/ (US).
- Final consonant blending: Some speakers may drop the "m" sound at the end, saying "prob-lem" instead of "prob-'LEM". Tip: Focus on clearly pronouncing the "m" to ensure the word is fully articulated: /ˈprɒb.ləm/ (UK), /ˈprɑː.bləm/ (US).
- Over-emphasizing the "b": Learners often place too much emphasis on the "b" sound, making it sound forced. The correct pronunciation should flow smoothly. Tip: Practice saying the word slowly, maintaining a natural rhythm: /ˈprɒb.ləm/ (UK), /ˈprɑː.bləm/ (US).
- Incorrect syllable count: Some may pronounce "problem" as a three-syllable word, saying "pro-ble-m". The correct pronunciation has only two syllables. Tip: Break it down into "PROB" and "lem" to keep it concise: /ˈprɒb.ləm/ (UK), /ˈprɑː.bləm/ (US).