Learn How to Pronounce relative
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How to pronounce:
relative
Definition:
(nou) a person related by blood or marriage (nou) an animal or plant that bears a relationship to another (as related by common descent or by membership in the same genus)
Phonetic Transcription:
ˈrelətɪv
Examples:
The provision is relative to the need.
Adhesion of the peritoneum is a relative contraindication.
Director was a relative latecomer to the project.
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Common mistakes of relative pronunciation
- Stress on the wrong syllable: Many people incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "re-LA-tive" instead of the correct "REL-a-tive" (ˈrɛl.ə.tɪv in US, ˈrɛl.ə.tɪv in UK). Tip: Focus on stressing the first syllable.
- Mispronouncing the vowel sounds: Some may pronounce the first vowel as "e" instead of the correct "ɛ" (as in "bed"). This leads to saying "ree-luh-tive." Tip: Practice the "ɛ" sound for clarity.
- Omitting the schwa sound: Skipping the schwa in the second syllable can lead to "rel-tive," which is incorrect. The correct pronunciation is "REL-a-tive." Tip: Remember to pronounce the schwa "a" lightly.
- Confusing "relative" with "relatives": Some learners mistakenly pronounce "relative" as if it were plural, emphasizing the "s" at the end. The correct form is singular. Tip: Keep the focus on the first syllable without adding an "s" sound.
- Incorrect vowel length: Some may pronounce the "i" in the last syllable too short, saying "rel-at-iv" instead of "rel-a-tive." Tip: Ensure the "i" is pronounced with a clear, longer sound.