Learn How to Pronounce scourge

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scourge

Definition:

(nou) a whip used to inflict punishment (often used for pedantic humor) (nou) something causing misery or death (nou) a person who inspires fear or dread

Phonetic Transcription:

skɜːdʒ

Examples:

It's the scourge of the Internet.

We are the scourge of the earth.

It is like the scourge of the music industry.

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scourge

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: scourge

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Common mistakes of scourge pronunciation

  1. Misplacing the stress: Many learners place the stress incorrectly on the second syllable, saying "scourge" as /ˈskaʊrdʒ/. The correct stress is on the first syllable: /ˈskɜrdʒ/ (US), /ˈskɜːdʒ/ (UK). Tip: Remember to emphasize the first part of the word.
  2. Incorrect vowel sound: Some may pronounce "scourge" with a long "ou" sound, as in "scour," sounding like /skaʊrdʒ/. The correct pronunciation uses a short "er" sound, /ˈskɜrdʒ/ (US), /ˈskɜːdʒ/ (UK). Tip: Focus on the "er" sound for accuracy.
  3. Omitting the ending: Learners sometimes drop the "ge" at the end, pronouncing it as "scour" (/skaʊr/). This omits the important final sound, leading to confusion. Tip: Always include the "ge" sound to complete the word.
  4. Confusing with similar words: Some might confuse "scourge" with "surge," pronouncing it as /sɜrdʒ/. This mispronunciation alters the meaning. Tip: Pay attention to the initial consonant "sc" to distinguish it from similar-sounding words.
  5. Overemphasizing the "g": A common mistake is to overemphasize the "g" in "scourge," pronouncing it as /skɔːrdʒ/. The "g" should be softer and not stressed. Tip: Keep the "g" subtle to maintain the correct pronunciation.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "scourge" in American English?

In American English, "scourge" is pronounced as /ˈskɜrdʒ/. The stress is on the first syllable, which sounds like "skurj."

What is the British pronunciation of "scourge"?

In British English, "scourge" is pronounced as /ˈskɜːdʒ/. Similar to the American version, the stress is also on the first syllable, but the vowel sound is slightly longer.

Does "scourge" have a schwa sound?

No, "scourge" does not contain a schwa sound. The pronunciation clearly emphasizes the "ur" sound, making it distinct in both US and UK variations.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "scourge"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress or pronouncing it with a silent "g," which is incorrect. Remember, the "g" is pronounced, and the stress is on the first syllable, "scourge."
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