Learn How to Pronounce reference
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How to pronounce:
reference
Definition:
(nou) a remark that calls attention to something or someone (nou) a short note recognizing a source of information or of a quoted passage (nou) an indicator that orients you generally (nou) a book to which you can refer for authoritative facts (nou) a formal recommendation by a former employer to a potential future employer describing the person's qualifications and dependability (nou) the most direct or specific meaning of a word or expression; the class of objects that an expression refers to (nou) the act of referring or consulting (nou) a publication (or a passage from a publication) that is referred to (nou) the code that identifies where a piece of information is stored (nou) the relation between a word or phrase and the object or idea it refers to
Phonetic Transcription:
ˈrefrəns
Examples:
The reference is used to corroborate, not to provide the quote.
Just click on the title of the book in the reference.
The single reference in that book is too fleeting and obscure.
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Common mistakes of reference pronunciation
- Misplacing stress: Some learners place stress on the second syllable, pronouncing it as /ˈrɛf.ər.əns/. In both US and UK English, the primary stress is on the first syllable, /ˈrɛf.ər.əns/. Tip: Remember to emphasize the first syllable.
- Dropping syllables: A common mistake is omitting the middle syllable, resulting in "reference" being pronounced as /ˈrɛf.rəns/. This can lead to misunderstandings. Tip: Practice saying all three syllables clearly: /ˈrɛf.ər.əns/.
- Confusing vowel sounds: Some may mispronounce the "e" in the first syllable, saying /ˈrɪf.ər.əns/ instead of /ˈrɛf.ər.əns/. This changes the word's meaning. Tip: Focus on the correct vowel sound /ɛ/ as in "bed."
- Incorrect final syllable: Some learners pronounce the final syllable as /s/ instead of /əns/, leading to "reference" sounding like /ˈrɛf.ər.ɛs/. This is incorrect in both US and UK English. Tip: End with /əns/ to maintain clarity.
- Overemphasizing vowels: Some speakers may overly stress the vowels, making "reference" sound unnatural, like /ˈrɛf.ər.ɛns/. This can confuse listeners. Tip: Keep the vowel sounds light and balanced, focusing on smooth transitions between syllables.