Welcome to this guide on how to say “Swarthmore”! Whether you’re a prospective student, a curious traveler, or simply interested in pronunciation, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways to say “Swarthmore.” While regional variations may arise, we’ll focus on the most commonly accepted pronunciations. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Pronunciation of Swarthmore
When it comes to formal pronunciations, adhering to established conventions is essential. Here’s how to pronounce “Swarthmore” in a formal setting:
The Basics: SWAHRTH-mawr
The primary emphasis falls on the first syllable, “SWAHRTH,” which rhymes with “north.” The second syllable, “mawr,” rhymes with “more.” The “th” in both syllables is pronounced as a soft “th” sound, as in the word “that.”
Tips for Formal Pronunciation:
- Ensure a clear and deliberate pronunciation of each syllable.
- Pronounce the “r” sound with a slight emphasis, but avoid overemphasizing it.
- Take care to soften the “th” sound in each syllable.
Examples of Formal Pronunciation:
A prospective student visiting the campus asks, “Could you please tell me how to get to Swarthmore College?”
An academic at a conference presents, “Our research team from Swarthmore College has found significant results in the study.”
Informal Pronunciation of Swarthmore
Informal settings often allow for more relaxed pronunciations. Here’s how “Swarthmore” is commonly pronounced in casual conversations:
The Basics: SWAHRTH-mor
The pronunciation remains similar to the formal version, but with a more natural flow. The second syllable, “mor,” loses the subtle “eh” sound at the end (heard in the formal “mawr”) and rhymes with “or” instead.
Tips for Informal Pronunciation:
- Allow for a smoother, more conversational pronunciation.
- Avoid overemphasizing the “r” sound, while still ensuring its presence.
- Relax the “th” sound slightly, making it less distinct.
Examples of Informal Pronunciation:
Two friends discussing college choices say, “I’m thinking about applying to Swarthmore College for their excellent liberal arts program.”
In a casual chat, someone mentions, “Have you heard about that new professor at Swarthmore? They’re supposed to be amazing!”
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal pronunciations are widely accepted, some regional variations may arise. Here are a couple of notable examples:
Possibility 1: SWAHRTH-mohr
In certain regions, such as parts of Pennsylvania, you might hear the informal pronunciation slightly adjusted. The second syllable, “mohr,” rhymes with “more” as in the formal pronunciation, but with an added “oh” sound at the end.
Possibility 2: SWAHRTH-mer
Another regional variation occurs when the informal pronunciation removes the final “r” sound in the second syllable altogether, making it rhyme with “fur” instead. This variation is more common in some New England areas.
Note that while regional variations exist, the formal and informal pronunciations outlined above are widely used and recognized.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the pronunciation of “Swarthmore” helps you navigate conversations about the college with ease. Remember, the formal pronunciation “SWAHRTH-mawr” and the informal pronunciation “SWAHRTH-mor” are the most commonly accepted. If you encounter regional variations, don’t worry! Language continuously evolves, and these variations reflect the beauty of diversity.
Whether you’re discussing Swarthmore College formally or casually, you now have the tools to pronounce it correctly. Best of luck!
