Learn How to Pronounce sputum

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sputum

Definition:

(nou) expectorated matter; saliva mixed with discharges from the respiratory passages; in ancient and medieval physiology it was believed to cause sluggishness

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈspjuːtəm

Examples:

The volume of secretions aspirated were collected in a sputum trap and recorded.

He spitted sputum.

Clear sputum is likely to be present.

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sputum

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How to perfect your pronunciation of: sputum

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Common mistakes of sputum pronunciation

  1. Misplacing the stress: Many pronounce "sputum" as /ˈspjuː.təm/, stressing the second syllable. This is incorrect. Tip: Remember to stress the first syllable, as in /ˈspjuː.təm/ (US) and /ˈspjuː.təm/ (UK).
  2. Incorrect vowel sound: Some learners say "sputum" with a short "u" sound, producing /ˈspʌtəm/. This alters the word's meaning. Tip: Use the long "u" sound as in /ˈspjuː.təm/ for accurate pronunciation.
  3. Omitting the "t": A common mistake is to say "sputum" without the "t," resulting in /ˈspjuː.əm/. This can confuse listeners. Tip: Ensure you pronounce the "t" clearly to maintain clarity.
  4. Confusing the "s" sound: Some pronounce the initial "s" in "sputum" as a "sh" sound, saying /ˈʃpjuː.təm/. This is incorrect. Tip: Use the standard "s" sound /s/ to start the word correctly.
  5. Ending with a hard "m": A few people mistakenly pronounce "sputum" with a hard "m" sound, like /ˈspjuː.tʌm/. This changes the word. Tip: End with a soft "m" sound, as in /ˈspjuː.təm/.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "sputum" correctly?

The word "sputum" is pronounced as /ˈspjuːtəm/ in both American and British English. The primary stress is on the first syllable, "spu," which sounds like "spoo," followed by a softer "tum."

What are the syllables in "sputum"?

The word "sputum" has two syllables: "spu" and "tum." The first syllable is stressed, making it more prominent when you say the word.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "sputum"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, such as saying "sput-um" instead of "SPU-tum." Remember to emphasize the first syllable for correct pronunciation.

Is there a schwa sound in "sputum"?

Yes, the second syllable "tum" contains a schwa sound, pronounced as /əm/. This makes it sound softer and less stressed compared to the first syllable.
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