Learn How to Pronounce vacuum

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vacuum

Definition:

(nou) the absence of matter (nou) an empty area or space (nou) a region that is devoid of matter (nou) an electrical home appliance that cleans by suction

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈvækjʊəm

Examples:

Secondly, a vacuum is not a void but the absence of ponderable matter in space.

Is the universe a vacuum fluctuation

The surface of the moon is a vacuum.

Learn more about:
vacuum

Related Words:

empty

motor

How to perfect your pronunciation of: vacuum

Learn Individual Sounds

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

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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.

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Common mistakes of vacuum pronunciation

Incorrect vowel sound: Many people pronounce "vacuum" with a short "a" sound, like in "cat." The correct pronunciation is /ˈvæk.juːm/ in US English and /ˈvæk.juːm/ in UK English. Tip: Focus on the long "u" sound, as in "you."
Missing syllable: Some learners say "vacum," omitting the second syllable. The correct form includes both syllables: /ˈvæk.juːm/. Tip: Practice breaking the word into two parts: "vac" and "uum" to ensure you say both.
Stress misplacement: People often stress the second syllable instead of the first, saying "va-CUUM." The correct stress is on the first syllable: /ˈvæk.juːm/. Tip: Emphasize the "vac" part to maintain proper stress.
Pronouncing "c" as "s": Some may say "vas-cuum," using an "s" sound instead of a "k." The correct sound is /k/, as in "cat." Tip: Remember that "c" before "u" in "vacuum" is pronounced as "k."
Confusion with "qu": Learners might pronounce "qu" as "kw," leading to "vac-kwum." The correct pronunciation is /ˈvæk.juːm/. Tip: Treat "qu" as a single sound, focusing on "k" followed by "y."

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "vacuum" in American English?

In American English, "vacuum" is pronounced as /ˈvæk.juːm/. The stress is on the first syllable, "vac," which sounds like "vak."

What is the British pronunciation of "vacuum"?

In British English, "vacuum" is also pronounced as /ˈvæk.juːm/, with the same stress on the first syllable. The difference is subtle, often related to accent rather than vowel sounds.

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

No, "vacuum" does not contain a schwa sound. The syllables are clearly pronounced as "vac" and "uum," with no reduction in the vowel sounds.

Are there any common mistakes people make when pronouncing "vacuum"?

A common mistake is mispronouncing "vacuum" as /ˈvæk.ʊm/, dropping the second syllable or misplacing the stress. Remember to keep both syllables clear and maintain the correct stress on the first syllable.