English pronunciation · Words Starting with A
Awkward Pronunciation
Awkward is pronounced AH-kwerd, IPA /ˈɑkwɝd/.
AH-kwerd
US /ˈɑkwɝd/ · UK /ˈɔːkwəd/
Syllables: AH · kwerd (2 syllables, stress on syllable 1)
adjective: Uncomfortable, clumsy, or hard to handle.
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Awkward in a Sentence
- There was an awkward pause before anyone spoke.
- The box is an awkward shape to carry.
- He is awkward with strangers but fine once he knows you.
Common Mispronunciations of Awkward
Not ak-WARD
Lead with the loud AH and let the second syllable drop to a weak kwerd. The two halves are not equal in weight.
Not AWK-wuhrd
Only one w is said, the one in the middle. The aw at the front is a vowel spelling, not a consonant.
Tip: Two syllables, AH-kwerd, and the kw runs together as in quick.
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