Learn How to Pronounce single

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single

Definition:

(nou) a base hit on which the batter stops safely at first base (nou) the smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈsɪŋɡəl

Examples:

Only one was shipped expeditiously, and it was a single item order.

The digital download of the single is only available in the UK.

The scandal only helped to increase the sales of the single.

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single

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: single

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

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Common mistakes of single pronunciation

  1. Misplacing the stress: Some learners may incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "sin-GLE" instead of the correct "SIN-gəl". Tip: Remember that the primary stress is on the first syllable, noted as ˈsɪŋ.gəl in IPA.
  2. Overpronouncing the "g": A common mistake is to pronounce the "g" in "single" too strongly, making it sound like "sing-gul". Tip: The "g" should be soft and quick, as in the IPA pronunciation ˈsɪŋ.gəl.
  3. Dropping the vowel sound: Some speakers might skip the schwa sound in the second syllable, saying "singl" instead of "single". Tip: Make sure to include the unstressed vowel sound, which is represented by the schwa /ə/ in IPA.
  4. Confusing with "singles": Learners sometimes confuse the singular "single" with the plural "singles", resulting in mispronunciation. Tip: Focus on the singular form, ensuring the correct stress and vowel sounds are used, as in ˈsɪŋ.gəl.
  5. Incorrect vowel sound: Some may pronounce the first vowel as in "see" instead of the correct short "i" sound, saying "seen-gəl". Tip: Practice the short "i" sound /ɪ/, which is crucial for accurate pronunciation, as in ˈsɪŋ.gəl.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "single" in American English?

In American English, "single" is pronounced as /ˈsɪŋɡl/. The stress is on the first syllable, "sin," which sounds like "sin" in "sinner."

What is the British pronunciation of "single"?

In British English, "single" is pronounced the same way as in American English, /ˈsɪŋɡl/. The stress remains on the first syllable, making it easy to remember.

Does "single" have a schwa sound in its pronunciation?

No, "single" does not contain a schwa sound. Each syllable is clearly pronounced, with the first syllable stressed and the second syllable sounding like "gəl."

What are common mistakes when pronouncing "single"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, which should always be on the first syllable: "sin." Some learners might also pronounce the "g" too softly, making it sound like "sinnle," which is incorrect.
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