Have you ever wondered how to pronounce “obviously”? This deceptively tricky word has a surprising pronunciation that can trip up even native English speakers. In this guide, we will explore the correct pronunciation of “obviously” and provide tips for mastering it.
The Correct Pronunciation of “Obviously”
The correct pronunciation of “obviously” is “ohb-vee-uhs-lee”. The stress is placed on the second syllable, “vee.” The “i” in the first syllable is pronounced as a short “i” sound, as in “sit.” The “a” in the second syllable is pronounced as a schwa sound, which is a neutral vowel sound that is not pronounced with any specific vowel quality. The “s” at the end of the word is pronounced as a voiced “z” sound.
Common Pronunciation Errors
There are several common pronunciation errors that people make when saying “obviously.” These errors include:
- Pronouncing the “i” in the first syllable as a long “i” sound: This results in a pronunciation of “ohb-vee-uhs-lye.”
- Pronouncing the “a” in the second syllable as a long “a” sound: This results in a pronunciation of “ohb-vee-uhs-lay.”
- Pronouncing the “s” at the end of the word as an unvoiced “s” sound: This results in a pronunciation of “ohb-vee-uhs-lee-s.”
Tips for Pronouncing “Obviously” Correctly
Here are some tips for pronouncing “obviously” correctly:
- Break the word down into syllables: Say “ohb-vee-uhs-lee” slowly, syllable by syllable.
- Practice saying the word: Repeat the word “obviously” several times, focusing on pronouncing each syllable correctly.
- Listen to native English speakers: Listen to how native English speakers pronounce the word “obviously.” You can find recordings of native speakers online or in movies and TV shows.
- Use a dictionary or online pronunciation guide: Consult a dictionary or online pronunciation guide to check the correct pronunciation of “obviously.”
Conclusion
Pronouncing “obviously” correctly is an important part of speaking English clearly and confidently. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can master the correct pronunciation of this common word and avoid making embarrassing pronunciation errors.
Additional Information
In addition to the correct pronunciation of “obviously,” there are a few other interesting facts about this word:
- The word “obviously” is derived from the Latin word “obvius,” which means “in the way.”
- The word “obviously” was first used in the English language in the 16th century.
- The word “obviously” is used to express something that is clear or self-evident.
- The word “obviously” can also be used sarcastically to express doubt or disbelief.
We hope this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to pronounce “obviously” correctly. By following the tips provided in this article, you can speak English with confidence and clarity.