Learn How to Pronounce proprietary

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proprietary

Definition:

(nou) an unincorporated business owned by a single person who is responsible for its liabilities and entitled to its profits

Phonetic Transcription:

prəˈpraɪətri

Examples:

The software is proprietary, the license is freeware.

Free is the opposite of proprietary.

The proprietary software is safe to use.

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proprietary

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: proprietary

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Common mistakes of proprietary pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Many learners stress the second syllable, saying "pro-PRI-e-tary" /prəˈpraɪ.əˌtɛr.i/. Tip: Remember to emphasize the third syllable, "PRI," as in /prəˈpraɪ.əˌtɛr.i/.
  2. Overpronouncing vowels: Some pronounce "proprietary" with exaggerated vowels, making it sound unnatural. Tip: Keep the vowels short, especially in unstressed syllables, as in /prəˈpraɪ.əˌtɛr.i/.
  3. Skipping syllables: A common mistake is to omit the second syllable, saying "propritary" /prəˈpraɪ.tɛr.i/. Tip: Ensure you clearly articulate all syllables: "pro-PRI-e-tary" /prəˈpraɪ.əˌtɛr.i/.
  4. Confusing with similar words: Some confuse "proprietary" with "propriety" /prəˈpraɪ.ə.ti/. Tip: Pay attention to the ending; "proprietary" has the "tary" sound, while "propriety" ends in "ety."
  5. Incorrect vowel sounds: Learners may use incorrect vowel sounds, such as pronouncing "proprietary" with an "o" as in "go." Tip: Use the schwa sound /ə/ for the first syllable, as in "pruh."

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "proprietary" correctly?

The correct pronunciation of "proprietary" is /prəˈpraɪəˌtɛri/ in US English and /prəˈpraɪətəri/ in UK English. The primary stress is on the second syllable, "pri," while the "e" in the third syllable is pronounced as a schwa sound, /ə/.

What is the syllable breakdown for "proprietary"?

"Proprietary" has five syllables: pro-pri-e-ta-ry. It can be helpful to break it down this way when practicing pronunciation.

Are there any common mistakes when saying "proprietary"?

One common mistake is misplacing the stress, often saying "pro-pri-e-ta-ry" with equal stress on all syllables. Remember to stress the second syllable, "pri," for correct pronunciation.

Is there a casual way to say "proprietary"?

In casual speech, "proprietary" may be shortened or pronounced less clearly, but it's best to use the full pronunciation for clarity, especially in formal settings.
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