Learn How to Pronounce sports

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sports

Definition:

(nou) an active diversion requiring physical exertion and competition (nou) the occupation of athletes who compete for pay (nou) a temporary summer resident of Maine (nou) a person known for the way she (or he) behaves when teased or defeated or subjected to trying circumstances (nou) someone who engages in sports (nou) an organism that has characteristics resulting from chromosomal alteration (nou) verbal wit or mockery (often at another's expense but not to be taken seriously)

Phonetic Transcription:

spɔːt

Examples:

The man is playing sports gamely.

There is impunity in the sports game.

Some agree that playing sports is pleasurable.

Learn more about:
sports

Related Words:

game

play

How to perfect your pronunciation of: sports

Learn Individual Sounds

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

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Avoid mixing word pronunciations. If you’re learning American English, stick to it and try not to confuse yourself with British pronunciation.

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Common mistakes of sports pronunciation

Dropping the "s": Some learners pronounce "sports" as "sport," missing the final "s." This changes the meaning and can confuse listeners. Tip: Always emphasize the "s" sound at the end, as in /spɔrts/ (US) or /spɔːts/ (UK).
Incorrect vowel sound: "Sports" may be pronounced with a short vowel sound, like "spirts." This is incorrect. The correct pronunciation uses a longer vowel sound. Tip: Practice saying the word with an emphasis on the "or" sound, /spɔrts/ (US) or /spɔːts/ (UK).
Misplacing stress: Some may incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "sports" as "spórts." This is not standard. Tip: Remember that "sports" is a one-syllable word; stress is on the first and only syllable.
Overemphasizing the "t": Learners sometimes overpronounce the "t," making it sound harsh, like "sportts." This is not typical in fluent speech. Tip: Keep the "t" soft and quick; it should blend smoothly with the "s," as in /spɔrts/ (US) or /spɔːts/ (UK).
Confusing with "sport": Some might say "sports" as "sport" when referring to multiple activities. This is a common error. Tip: Remember that "sports" indicates various games or physical activities, always keep the "s" sound clear.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "sports" in American English?

In American English, "sports" is pronounced as /spɔrts/ with the stress on the single syllable. The "o" in "sports" has an "aw" sound, similar to "more."

What is the British pronunciation of "sports"?

In British English, "sports" is also pronounced as /spɔːts/, where the "o" is pronounced longer, similar to "thought." The stress remains on the single syllable as well.

Is there a schwa sound in "sports"?

No, there is no schwa sound in "sports." The word has a clear vowel sound, and it is pronounced as a single syllable without any unstressed vowels.

Are there common mistakes when pronouncing "sports"?

One common mistake is mispronouncing "sports" with a schwa sound, like /spərts/, which is incorrect. Additionally, some learners may stress the "s" too much, making it sound unnatural.