Top 20 Words Everyone Mispronounces

Top 20 Words Everyone Mispronounces (and How to Say Them Right)

Have you ever confidently used a word in conversation — only to find out you totally butchered it? You’re not alone! Even native speakers slip up sometimes. The good news? You can fix it and sound even more impressive.

Why Pronunciation Matters

Saying words correctly isn’t just about showing off. It makes you sound confident, educated, and professional. Plus, it saves you from awkward corrections in the middle of a conversation.

Common Reasons People Mispronounce Words

Many people learn words through reading instead of hearing them, which means we often guess at how to say them. English is especially tricky, with tons of exceptions and weird silent letters. Accents and local dialects also play a big role.

How to Practice Correct Pronunciation

Start by listening! Use apps like Merriam-Webster or YouGlish to hear words used in real contexts. Repeat out loud and record yourself to track your progress.

1. Mischievous

Common mistake: "mis-CHEE-vee-us"
Correct: "MIS-chuh-vus"

2. Espresso

Common mistake: "ex-PRESS-oh"
Correct: "es-PRESS-oh"

3. Nuclear

Common mistake: "NOO-kyuh-lur"
Correct: "NOO-klee-er"

4. Quinoa

Common mistake: "kwin-OH-ah"
Correct: "KEEN-wah"

5. Prerogative

Common mistake: "per-ROG-uh-tive"
Correct: "pri-ROG-uh-tive"

6. Often

Common mistake: "OFF-ten"
Correct: "OFF-en"

7. Library

Common mistake: "lie-BERRY"
Correct: "LIE-brer-ee"

8. Jewelry

Common mistake: "JEW-luh-ree"
Correct: "JEW-el-ree"

9. Sherbet

Common mistake: "SHER-bert"
Correct: "SHER-bit"

10. Realtor

Common mistake: "REE-luh-tor"
Correct: "REE-uhl-tor"

11. Arctic

Common mistake: "AR-tic"
Correct: "ARK-tic"

12. February

Common mistake: "FEB-yoo-air-ee"
Correct: "FEB-roo-air-ee"

13. Cache

Common mistake: "KAYSH" or "KATCH"
Correct: "CASH"

14. Meme

Common mistake: "MEH-meh" or "meemee"
Correct: "MEEM"

15. Salmon

Common mistake: "SAL-mon"
Correct: "SAM-uhn"

16. Forte

Common mistake: "FOR-tay" (when meaning "strength")
Correct: "FORT"

17. Et cetera

Common mistake: "EK-set-uh-ruh"
Correct: "et SET-er-uh"

18. Hyperbole

Common mistake: "HY-per-bowl"
Correct: "hy-PER-buh-lee"

19. Candidate

Common mistake: "CAN-i-date"
Correct: "KAN-duh-date"

20. Worcestershire

Common mistake: "WOR-ces-ter-shyre"
Correct: "WUSS-ter-sheer" or "WUSS-ter-shuh"

How to Avoid Embarrassment

Before showing off a tricky word, double-check its pronunciation. Listen to native speakers, practice aloud, and don't rush it. Confidence comes with repetition.

Fun Ways to Learn Pronunciation

Use apps like ELSA Speak or join online speaking groups. You can even challenge friends to pronunciation games. Learning should be fun!

Benefits of Speaking Clearly

Clear pronunciation builds credibility, boosts confidence, and helps you connect with people more easily. Whether you're giving a presentation or chatting with new friends, you’ll make a better impression.

Conclusion

Don’t worry if you’ve been saying "quinoa" wrong your whole life — now you know better! Take it one word at a time, keep practicing, and soon you’ll sound like a total pro.

FAQs

Q1: Should I correct someone if they mispronounce a word?
A1: Only if they ask or in a teaching context; otherwise, it might seem rude.

Q2: How long does it take to improve pronunciation?
A2: With daily practice, you can start seeing improvements in just a few weeks.

Q3: Can I keep my regional accent?
A3: Absolutely! The goal is clarity, not losing your identity.

Q4: What’s the fastest way to learn correct pronunciation?
A4: Listening to native speakers and practicing aloud regularly is the fastest route.

Q5: Do native speakers mispronounce words too?
A5: Yes! Even native speakers slip up sometimes. It’s totally normal.

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