Learn How to Pronounce turn
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How to pronounce:
turn
Definition:
(nou) a circular segment of a curve (nou) the act of changing or reversing the direction of the course (nou) the activity of doing something in an agreed succession (nou) an unforeseen development (nou) a movement in a new direction (nou) the act of turning away or in the opposite direction (nou) turning or twisting around (in place) (nou) a time for working (after which you will be relieved by someone else) (nou) a division during which one team is on the offensive (nou) a short theatrical performance that is part of a longer program (nou) a favor for someone (nou) taking a short walk out and back
Phonetic Transcription:
tɜːn
Examples:
This impromptu turn in trousers proved to be the turning point of her career.
Frostbitten areas will turn discolored, purplish at first, and soon turn black.
At the end of the row, turn the work.
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Common mistakes of turn pronunciation
- Incorrect vowel sound: Many learners pronounce "turn" with a clear "u" sound, like in "tune." The correct pronunciation is /tɜrn/ in US English and /tɜːn/ in UK English. Tip: Focus on the "ur" as a single sound, similar to "her."
- Misplaced stress: Some people place stress on the second syllable, saying "tur-N." The correct stress is on the first syllable: /ˈtɜrn/ in US and /ˈtɜːn/ in UK. Tip: Emphasize "turn" as one smooth sound without breaking it into parts.
- Over-articulating the "r": Learners often pronounce "turn" with an exaggerated "r," making it sound like "tarn." The proper pronunciation is more subtle: /tɜrn/ or /tɜːn/. Tip: Keep the "r" sound soft and blend it with the vowel.
- Confusing with "torn": Some may mix up "turn" with "torn," pronouncing it as /tɔrn/. The correct pronunciation of "turn" is /tɜrn/ in US and /tɜːn/ in UK. Tip: Remember that "turn" has the "ur" sound, while "torn" has "or."
- Dropping the "t": A common mistake is to say "urn" instead of "turn," omitting the initial "t." The correct form starts with /t/ as in /tɜrn/ or /tɜːn/. Tip: Always pronounce the "t" clearly to avoid confusion.