Learn How to Pronounce usurp

Not sure how to say a word? Try the Promova pronunciation tool for free and learn how to pronounce anything in English correctly. Discover over 100,000 words and easily learn English pronunciation online!

Find your word:

Try:

Find how to pronounce a word and practice it in our free word pronouncer for English learners!

How to pronounce:

Listen to the pronunciation:

usurp

Phonetic Transcription:

juːˈzɜːp

Examples:

He aims to usurp the throne.

Did the Mayor usurp the Democratic process

He aims to usurp the throne to the Netheruniverse.

Learn more about:

usurp

Related Words:

How to perfect your pronunciation of: usurp

Learn Individual Sounds

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

Copy Others

Use the tools above to find out how different people say usurp in their accents, then try to repeat after them.

Pick an Accent

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

Record Yourself

Say usurp in the pronunciation tool as many times as it takes before you get it right. Record yourself saying different sentences with usurp.

Get a Native Tutor

Improve your pronunciation with native speakers! Practice with American, British, and Australian teachers on Promova.

Common mistakes of usurp pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Some learners incorrectly stress the first syllable, saying "US-urp" instead of "u-SURP" (ˌjuˈzɜrp in US, ˌjuˈzɜːp in UK). Tip: Remember to emphasize the second syllable for correct pronunciation.
  2. Vowel confusion: A common mistake is mispronouncing the "u" as "yoo" instead of the correct "yoo" sound. This leads to saying "yoo-SURP." Tip: Focus on the "u" sounding like "you" in "usurp" (ˈjuː).
  3. Dropping the "r": Some may pronounce "usurp" without the "r," resulting in "yoo-suhp." This is incorrect in both US and UK pronunciations (ˈjuːzɜrp/ˈjuːzɜːp). Tip: Always include the "r" sound clearly.
  4. Incorrect final consonant: Some might say "usurped" with a soft "d" sound, leading to "usurped" sounding like "yoo-surp-ed." Tip: Ensure the "p" is pronounced clearly and distinctly at the end of the word.
  5. Overemphasizing "u": Learners sometimes overemphasize the "u," making it sound like "yoo" instead of a quick "u." This can lead to mispronunciation. Tip: Keep the "u" sound smooth and connected to the rest of the word.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "usurp"?

The word "usurp" is pronounced as /juˈzɜrp/ in American English and /jʊˈzɜːp/ in British English. The primary stress is on the second syllable, "zurp."

What are the syllables in "usurp"?

The word "usurp" has two syllables: "u" and "surp." It is broken down as "u-surp," with the stress on the second syllable.

Is there a schwa in "usurp"?

No, there is no schwa sound in "usurp." The first syllable "u" is pronounced as "ju" in American English and "jʊ" in British English, both of which are clear vowel sounds.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "usurp"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, pronouncing it as "US-urp" instead of "u-SURP." Remember to emphasize the second syllable to pronounce "usurp" correctly.
Improve your pronunciation with a convenient app anywhere, anytime