Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to properly pronounce the word “succession”! In this guide, we will cover both the formal and informal ways to say this word. While regional variations exist, we will primarily focus on the standard pronunciation. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Pronunciation of “Succession”
The formal pronunciation of “succession” typically follows standard English pronunciation rules. Here are the step-by-step guidelines:
- Start by saying the initial “s” sound. Place your tongue against the back of your upper front teeth and release a sharp “s” sound.
- Follow by saying the middle “uh” sound. Open your mouth slightly and produce an indistinct sound – halfway between “uh” and “ih”.
- Move on to the “k” sound. Close your vocal cords briefly, then release a quick, sharp burst of air when opening your mouth.
- Proceed with the “s” sound, similar to the first step, by placing your tongue against the back of your upper front teeth and exhaling.
- End with the “shun” sound. The “sh” sound is like a soft “s”, followed closely by the “un” sound, as in “umbrella”.
Putting it all together, the formal pronunciation sounds like: suh-k-s-shun.
Informal Pronunciation of “Succession”
In informal settings, people tend to simplify certain sounds. Conversational speech often involves shortcuts and changes to make pronunciation quicker and easier. The informal pronunciation of “succession” is:
- Skip the initial “s” sound.
- Say the middle “uh” sound, as described in the formal pronunciation.
- Continue with the “k” sound and follow it directly with the “shun” sound.
So, in an informal context, “succession” is pronounced: “uh-k-shun”.
Tips for Proper Pronunciation of “Succession”
Here are some additional tips to refine your pronunciation of “succession”:
- Enunciate clearly: Be sure to pronounce each syllable distinctly to avoid any confusion.
- Practice slowly: Initially, practice saying the word slowly, focusing on each sound, and gradually increase your speed.
- Listen to native speakers: Pay attention to how native English speakers pronounce “succession”, and try to imitate their intonation and rhythm.
- Record yourself: Make a recording of your pronunciation and compare it to the standard pronunciation. This will help you identify areas for improvement.
Example: “In the line of royal succession, Prince William is next in line to the throne.”
Regional Variations
While “succession” is generally pronounced similarly across English-speaking regions, some minor variations may exist. For example, in certain areas of the United Kingdom, the “uh” sound might lean more towards an “ah” sound (s-ah-k-shun). However, this difference is minimal and not widely recognized as the standard.
Final Thoughts
By following the formal or informal pronunciation guidelines outlined in this guide and incorporating the provided tips, you will confidently say the word “succession”. Remember to practice regularly to refine your pronunciation skills, and soon, you’ll effortlessly breeze through conversations involving this word! Happy speaking!
