Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to pronounce the word “prejudice.” Whether you’re looking to master the correct pronunciation for formal or informal settings, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover different variations, provide helpful tips, and offer plenty of examples to ensure you can confidently say “prejudice” in any context.
Table of Contents
Formal Pronunciation:
The formal pronunciation of “prejudice” is generally uniform across regions. It consists of three syllables: pre-ju-dice. Here’s a breakdown of each syllable:
Syllable 1: “pre”
– Start with the ‘p’ sound, as in “pear.”
– Followed by the ‘r’ sound, similar to a gentle roll or tap of the tongue against the roof of your mouth.
– Finally, pronounce the ‘e’ sound as in “egg.”
Syllable 2: “ju”
– Begin with the ‘j’ sound, like the initial sound in “jump.”
– Then, pronounce the ‘u’ sound, similar to the ‘u’ in “cute.”
Syllable 3: “dice”
– Emphasize the ‘d’ sound at the beginning, like the ‘d’ in “dog.”
– Followed by the long ‘i’ sound, like in “ice.”
– Finish the word with the ‘s’ sound, as in “sister.”
Informal Pronunciation:
In informal settings or everyday conversations, regional variations may slightly affect the pronunciation of “prejudice.” Keep in mind that these variations are subtle, and the formal pronunciation works perfectly well in informal situations. Nonetheless, here are some casual alternatives you may come across:
Alternative 1: “prej-uh-diss”
– In syllable 2, the ‘ju’ sound is often pronounced as “uh” followed by the ‘diss’ sound instead of “dice.”
– For instance, “prej-uh-diss” with a soft and swift ‘j’ transition.
Alternative 2: “prej-uh-jis”
– Similar to alternative 1, the ‘ju’ sound becomes an “uh” sound.
– However, instead of “diss,” it is replaced by the ‘j’ sound followed by the ‘iss’ sound.
– For example, “prej-uh-jis” with a quick ‘j’ sound.
Tips for Pronouncing “Prejudice”:
Here are some tips to help you improve your pronunciation of “prejudice” in any context:
1. Practice Syllable by Syllable:
Breaking the word down into syllables, as we did earlier, will allow you to focus on each sound separately and ensure accurate pronunciation.
2. Slow Down:
Pronouncing each syllable at a slower pace will not only help you get the sounds right but also enable you to grasp the correct rhythm and emphasis of the word.
3. Listen and Repeat:
Listen to native speakers or audio clips pronouncing “prejudice” and try to mimic their intonation, stress patterns, and overall pronunciation. Practice speaking out loud and repeat as often as necessary.
Examples:
Now, let’s explore some examples of “prejudice” that will assist you in mastering its pronunciation.
Example 1: Formal Pronunciation
“The judge’s decision was based on clear evidence, without any pre-ju-dice towards the accused.”
Example 2: Informal Pronunciation
“She faced a lot of prej-uh-diss due to her outsider status in the community.”
Mastering Pronunciation:
Congratulations! By following this comprehensive guide, you have gained a deeper understanding of how to pronounce “prejudice” confidently in both formal and informal situations. Remember to practice regularly, listen to native speakers, and build your pronunciation skills over time. With dedication and perseverance, you’ll soon become a master of pronunciation!
