1. How to Pronounce Prejudice in English

Featured Image: https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=%22How%20To%20Pronounce%20Prejudice%22&w=120&h=120&c=7&rs=1&qlt=90&dpr=1

In the tapestry of human interactions, language holds immense power to shape perceptions and foster understanding. It is within this intricate realm that we encounter words that carry significant weight and evoke strong emotions. Prejudice is one such word, often whispered with hushed tones or spoken with a venom that can cut deeper than any blade. Its pronunciation, a subtle symphony of syllables, holds the potential to unveil the speaker’s true intentions and reveal the depths of their preconceived notions.

The word “prejudice” traces its etymological roots to the Latin word “praeiudicium,” meaning “a judgment reached beforehand.” This etymology itself hints at the inherent bias that seeps into this term. The pronunciation of prejudice, with its emphasis on the second syllable, captures this notion of a prejudgment, a hasty and often ill-informed conclusion drawn without due consideration. The “i” in the second syllable resembles a subtle hiss, as if the word itself recoils at the unfairness it represents.

However, the pronunciation of prejudice can also vary depending on regional dialects and individual preferences. In some regions, the stress may fall more heavily on the first syllable, rendering it as “prej-u-dis.” This pronunciation emphasizes the “pre-” prefix, highlighting the antecedent nature of the judgment. Regardless of the variation in pronunciation, the word prejudice remains a powerful linguistic tool, capable of wielding both harm and understanding. It is a word that demands careful consideration, for its utterance can both perpetuate bias or challenge it.

Pronouncing the Vowel Sounds

1. Pronouncing “ei”

The “ei” diphthong is a common sound in English, appearing in words like “say,” “eight,” and “rein.” To pronounce it correctly, follow these steps:

Start by saying the vowel sound “a” as in “cat.”
Then, quickly glide to the vowel sound “i” as in “sit.”

The result should be a single, smooth diphthong that avoids sounding like two separate syllables.

2. Pronouncing “u”

The pronunciation of “u” can vary depending on the word. In most cases, it is pronounced with a short “u” sound, as in “put” or “sun.” However, in some words, such as “rule” or “use,” it is pronounced with a long “u” sound, similar to the “oo” sound in “boot.”

3. Pronouncing “i” in Unstressed Syllables

In unstressed syllables, the letter “i” is often pronounced with a neutral sound, represented by the symbol “schwa” (ə). This sound is similar to the vowel sound in the words “the” or “ago.” When “i” appears in an unstressed syllable, it is essential to relax the jaw and avoid producing a full vowel sound.

Example	Pronunciation
prejudice	prĕj-ə-dis
prejudicial	prĕj-ə-dish-əl

Stressing the Correct Syllables

Properly pronouncing the word “prejudice” is crucial for clear communication. The correct pronunciation involves stressing the following syllables:

1. First Syllable

The first syllable of “prejudice” is “pre,” pronounced as “pree.” Emphasize this syllable by raising your voice slightly when pronouncing it.

2. Second Syllable

The second syllable, “ju,” is pronounced as “joo.” Like the first syllable, stress this one by speaking it somewhat louder.

3. Third Syllable

The third syllable, “dice,” is pronounced as “dis.” This syllable receives less emphasis than the first two. Pronounce it with a neutral tone.

4. Pronunciation Table

Here’s a table summarizing the correct pronunciation of “prejudice”:

Syllable	Pronunciation
Pre	pree
Ju	joo
Dice	dis

The Influence of Regional Accents

1. American Pronunciation

In the United States, prejudice is typically pronounced with a short “e” sound and a “j” sound at the beginning. For example, you would say “PREJ-uh-dis”.

2. British Pronunciation

In the United Kingdom, prejudice is typically pronounced with a long “e” sound and a “j” sound at the beginning. For example, you would say “PREJ-uh-dees”.

3. Australian Pronunciation

In Australia, prejudice is typically pronounced with a short “e” sound and a “j” sound at the beginning. However, some Australians may also pronounce it with a diphthong, such as “PREJ-ee-dis”.

4. Canadian Pronunciation

In Canada, prejudice is typically pronounced with a short “e” sound and a “j” sound at the beginning. However, some Canadians may also pronounce it with a diphthong, such as “PREJ-ee-dis”.

5. Indian Pronunciation

In India, prejudice is typically pronounced with a long “e” sound and a “j” sound at the beginning. However, some Indians may also pronounce it with a diphthong, such as “PREJ-ee-dis”.

6. Pronunciation Variations by Region

The following table shows some of the different ways that prejudice can be pronounced in different regions of the world:

Region	Pronunciation
United States	PREJ-uh-dis
United Kingdom	PREJ-uh-dees
Australia	PREJ-uh-dis / PREJ-ee-dis
Canada	PREJ-uh-dis / PREJ-ee-dis
India	PREJ-uh-dees / PREJ-ee-dis