mispronounce
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˌmɪs.prəˈnaʊns/
KK: /mɪsprəˈnaʊns/
intransitive verb
Definition
To say a word incorrectly or in a way that is not the standard pronunciation.
Example
Many people mispronounce my name, even after I tell them how to say it.
Tense Forms
Past: mispronounced
Past Participle: mispronounced
Conversation
Did you hear how I mispronounce that word in class today?
Yeah, I noticed! It sounded a bit funny.
I always seem to mispronounce the tricky ones, though.
Don't worry, we all do it sometimes!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mangle
misstate
slur
Antonyms
pronounce
articulate
enunciate
transitive verb
Definition
To say a word in the wrong way or with the wrong sounds.
Example
Many people mispronounce my name, but I don't mind correcting them.
Tense Forms
Past: mispronounced
Past Participle: mispronounced
Conversation
I always seem to mispronounce that word when I read it aloud.
It's tricky! I used to do the same thing.
Yeah, I guess I just need to practice saying it more often.
Root Explanation
Mispronounce → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly) and "pronounce" (from Latin "pronuntiare", meaning to announce or declare). The word means to announce or declare something incorrectly.
Memory Tip
Think of saying something 'wrongly' ('mis-') when you 'announce' it ('pronounce'). This helps you remember that mispronounce means to say a word incorrectly.
Visually Confused Words
pronounce
pronouncer
pronounced