Learn How to Pronounce refrain

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refrain

Definition:

(nou) the part of a song where a soloist is joined by a group of singers

Phonetic Transcription:

rɪˈfreɪn

Examples:

In the future, please refrain from using sophistry.

Please refrain from further unsubstantial slandering.

G 20 says it will refrain from competitive devaluation.

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refrain

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: refrain

Learn Individual Sounds

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

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Common mistakes of refrain pronunciation

  1. Stress placement: Many learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "re-FRAIN" instead of the correct "re-FRAIN" (ˈrɪˌfreɪn). Tip: Remember that the primary stress is on the second syllable.
  2. Vowel confusion: Some pronounce the first syllable as "ree" instead of "ri" (ˈrɪ). This changes the sound and can lead to misunderstandings. Tip: Focus on keeping the first syllable short and relaxed.
  3. Incorrect vowel sounds: A common mistake is pronouncing the "ai" as "ay" instead of the correct "ei" sound (freɪn). This can alter the meaning of the word. Tip: Practice saying "refrain" slowly to get the vowel sound right.
  4. Missing the final sound: Some learners drop the final "n" sound, saying "refray" instead of "refrain" (freɪn). This can lead to confusion with other words. Tip: Emphasize the "n" at the end to ensure clarity.
  5. Overemphasis on the "r": Some may pronounce "refrain" with an exaggerated "r" sound, making it sound unnatural. Tip: Keep the "r" soft and blend it smoothly into the word.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "refrain" in American English?

In American English, "refrain" is pronounced as /rɪˈfreɪn/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable sounds like "ri" in "river," and the second syllable rhymes with "rain."

What is the British pronunciation of "refrain"?

In British English, "refrain" is also pronounced as /rɪˈfreɪn/, similar to the American version. The stress remains on the second syllable, and the vowel sounds are consistent across both dialects.

How many syllables are in the word "refrain"?

The word "refrain" has two syllables: "re" and "frain." The first syllable is unstressed, while the second syllable carries the primary stress.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "refrain"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress on the first syllable, saying "RE-frain" instead of "re-FRAIN." Remember to emphasize the second syllable to pronounce it correctly.
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