198 commonly mispronounced English words in Nigeria

From words that twist the tongue with their tricky vowel couplings, consonants that sound neither firm nor soft, and the sharp alphabets that end up being silent, there’s a lot to learn.

To be frank, some of these words were inadvertently introduced to you as far back as when you said your first words in Nigeria and this fundamental error has made such words so normal that even if you heard someone pronouncing it the right way, you likely say “No! That’s not how to say it” 🙄

And then, you end up shooting yourself in the foot. 

To pronounce all the words you have already learnt in another form is like passing a thread through a needle’s eye but the truth is, it is very possible.

From my experience of coming across different words, I have made you a long list of words you probably might have mispronounced for decades and confidently at that. 😆

We learn every day, don’t we?

How would you feel if someone pronounced your native language the wrong way? I am sure you will be so quick to correct the person because the sound is also vital if you need to communicate effectively.

It’s time to learn, unlearn and re-learn our Nigerian English. Feel free to check the correct pronunciation sound of any of the words here. You might need your earpiece to give you a clearer sound.

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1. Diffuse

To spread over an extensive region.

Diffuse in a sentence – The cells were in a persistent cloud of diffused plasma molecular.

I encountered this word a lot during my biology classes back in elementary school days and heard it wrongly as da-i-fuse with the first syllable sounding like di in dilate but this is wrong. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

It should be pronounced as di-fuse with di as in dig, ditch, dip 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is |dɪˈfjuːs| 

2. Beau

A loving man who is commonly referred to as a boyfriend.

Beau in a sentence – Jane and her beau decided to have a date in the Chinese restaurant.

With your mouth sticking out, you might have confidently mispronounced as buu as in book. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

It should be pronounced as bo as boat, boast, bowl 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is |bəʊ|

198 Commonly Mispronounced English Words In Nigeria

3. Venus

The second planet from the sun. It is also known as a love goddess.

Venus in a sentence – Planet Venus was termed after a Roman goddess.

It is usually mispronounced as Vęnus, Vę as in Vet, vector, vegetable 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

It should be pronounced as vinus, vi as in victor  100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is |viː.nəs| 

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4. Lingerie

A piece of light clothes used by women as underwear or nightwear.

Lingerie in a sentence – Do you like this colour of lingerie?

This is another commonly mispronounced word.

Please, stop pronouncing it just the way it is spelt like lin-ger-ie 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Lin here is pronounced as lon as in long 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

…gerie – ge here is pronounced as ji in jingle

…rie – the last e is silent. Just pronounce like it’s “ri” 

British transcription is |lɒn.ʒər.i| that is lon-ji-ri

Although Americans have a slightly different way of pronouncing it as |lɑːn. ʒəˈreɪ| that is lon-ji-rei

5. Epitome

A perfect example of a particular type of thing.

Epitome in a sentence – The building is an epitome of elegance

Many professionals have mispronounced this time after time. 😥

The letter e that starts the word is pronounced as I in ink and not E in egg.

The ‘me’ at the end of the word should be pronounced as it is – me.

Yes, pronounce it all as i-pi-to-me 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Not as e-pi-tom 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is [ ɪˈpɪt.ə.mi ]

6. Poignant

Inducing a strong sense of grief or regret.

Poignant in a sentence – This picture is a poignant reminder of my past.

This word sounds like poi-nyant. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Forget the ‘g’, it’s silent. 

There is an imaginary y sound after the first letter n 

Transcription is [ ˈpɔɪ.njənt ]

7. Debris

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Scattered rubbish or waste

Debris in a sentence – The old park is full of rubble and debris.

I mispronounced this word a couple of times too before I knew the last letter – “s” is supposed to be silent.

So, this word is pronounced as debri. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Overlook the s. It is as simple as that.

Transcription is [ ˈdeɪ.briː ]

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8. Wednesday

Wednesday – the day of the week after Tuesday but before Thursday.

In a sentence – Tomorrow is Wednesday. We have to submit our assignment tomorrow. 

Here the d is silent while the es is pronounced as Z

Yes, the word is not pronounced as it is, so forget the spelling and just pronounce it as wenzday. 😉 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

9. Pizza

An Italian dish or snack consisting of a flat round base of dough, baked with a topping of tomatoes and cheese, typically with added meat, fish, or vegetables.

Pizza in a sentence – Pizzas seem to be the choice for couples hanging out.

Yes, don’t be deceived by the way this word is spelt. It should be pronounced as pitza. Pit and za. Pitza 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English 

Pronounce those two words together and you’re good to go.

Transcription is –  |ˈpiːtsə|

10. Tomb

A large vault, typically an underground one that is used for burying the dead.

Tomb in a sentence – He was put in a tomb after his death.

When you see this word, just assume you can’t see the b. That letter b is meant to be silent.

Then the o there is pronounced like u in fume. Surprised? It should sound like TUM 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is – [ tuːm ]

11. Demon

A demon is an evil spirit

Demon is a sentence – The demon in him has been dealt with and he is now free.

It should be pronounced as Dimon like di in diffuse, diligent, dissolve, or de in develop. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is [ ˈdiː.mən ]

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12. Chassis

The base frame of a car or other wheeled vehicle.

Chassis in a sentence – His Chassis was severely damaged by the accident.

It should be pronounced like the last s is silent – Just Chasi. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Don’t try to pronounce it the way it is spelt, that’ll be wrong.

Transcription is |ˈʃæsi| 

13. Marijuana

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Also known as cannabis which is smoked or consumed as a psychoactive drug.

Marijuana in a sentence – Marijuana is illegal and dangerous to your health.

When I discovered the way this word is pronounced, I laughed at my years of ignorance. 😀 

It sounds a bit funny and really different from the way you see it. 

The J in the word is pronounced like W. Pronounce it like mariwana. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription – [ ˌmær.əˈwɑː.nə ]

14. Banquet

A banquet is an elaborate and formal evening meal for a lot of people.

Banquet in a sentence – Let’s meet at the banqueting hall.

The last four letters in that word is pronounced as “quit”. Like when you “quit” your job for another one.

Transcription is [ ˈbæŋ.kwɪt ]

15. Restaurant

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

A restaurant is a place where you pay to sit and eat meals cooked and served on the premises.

Restaurant in a sentence – Let’s meet at the restaurant this evening.

Pronounce restaurant like you are pronouncing two syllables – Rest and runt.

Not like rest-au-rant.

Transcription is [ ˈrestrɒnt ]

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16. Pronunciation

The way a word is pronounced

Pronunciation in a sentence – The pronunciation of that word you just said is wrong.

Many people have mispronounced this world as an extension of pronounce.

Even though it is the noun form of pronounce, it doesn’t sound like it. Pronunciation is spelt differently and sounds a bit different from pronounce.

It sounds like it is spelt Pro-nun-cia-tion. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is – |prəˌnʌnsiˈeɪʃn|

17. Joseph

An English name. It’s also the name of the eleventh son of Jacob.

Joseph in a sentence – Joseph is really a good boy.

This is my last name and you wouldn’t believe I just got to know the right pronunciation in 2018. 😐

I introduced myself to a British woman & she said it’s not Joseph like seph – set, self.

It should sound like sit, seal. Josif 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is – [ ˈʤəʊzɪf ]

18. Entrepreneur

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

A person who sets up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit.

Entrepreneur in a sentence – Everyone thought he was an entrepreneur

Do you also mispronounce this word?

There was a time I mispronounced this word ‘enter-pre-neur’.

I later got to know that it is rightly pronounced as ‘on-truh-pruh-nuh’. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is – ˌ/ɒntrəprəˈnəː/

19. Genre

An expressive style or category of art, music, or literature.

Genre in a sentence- What genres of music do you like?

The word sounds like jonre. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is –  ‘ʒɒ̃rə,ˈ(d)ʒɒnrə’

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20. February

The month following January and preceding March.

February in a sentence- My birthday is in February.

It sounds like ‘fe-broo-ree’ 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is –  /ˈfɛbrʊəri’/

21. Mischievous

A term used when someone is naughtily or annoyingly playful.

Mischievous in a sentence- That little girl is mischievous.
It sounds like ‘mis-chuh-vuhs’ 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is –  /ˈmɪstʃɪvəs’/

22. Comfortable

A word used to describe a state of relaxation.

Comfortable in a sentence – She found a comfortable seat behind the pew

The or in comfortable is silent. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is- /ˈkʌmf(ə)təb(ə)l/

23. Google

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Google is a widely used search engine that uses text-matching techniques to find web pages that are important and relevant to a user’s search

Some people have mispronounced Go in Google like Go in God. This is wrong.

It should be pronounced as Go in Good. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is [ ˈɡuː.ɡl̩ ]

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24. Etcetera

A term used when there is additional unspecified odds and ends.
Etcetera in a sentence – He bought Oranges, Apples, Banana, Guava, etcetera.

The word sounds like et-set-ra in British English 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is- /et ˈset(ə)rə/

25. Suite

An apartment consisting of connected rooms used as a living unit (as in a hotel).

Suite is a homograph. It can also be used to describe a musical composition of several movements only loosely connected.

Suite in a sentence- Mr. Harry lodged in Suite 113, Radison Hotel.

The word sounds like sweet. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Now, you feel like having some sweets 😆
Transcription is- /swiːt/

26. Library

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

A building or room containing collections of books, periodicals, and sometimes films and recorded music for use or borrowing by the public or the members of an institution.
Library in a sentence: I will be at the library by 4 pm
The word sounds lai-bruh-ree 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
British Transcription is- / laɪbrəri/

27. Either

Used before the first of two (or occasionally more) given alternatives (the other being introduced by ‘or’).
Either in a sentence: Either Henry or Betty took the key.
The word sounds ai-ther 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ ˈaɪðə(r) ]

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28. Hyperbole

An extravagant exaggeration.
Hyperbole in a sentence: He described the event as a hyperbole.
The word sounds hai -per-buh-lee 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ haɪˈpɜː.bəl.i ]

29. Status

The relative position or standing of things or especially persons in a society.

Status in a sentence: I will love to know his status.

The first three letters sound like stay, while the last three sound like two+s.

It sounds like Stay-Twos 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is [ ˈsteɪtəs ]

30. Primer

A substance used as a preparatory coat on wood, metal, or canvas, especially to prevent the absorption of subsequent layers of paint or the development of rust.

Primer is also a word used for a cosmetic applied to the face before another product, intended to improve the coverage and lasting effect of the second product.

In a sentence: The carpenter applied 2 coats of primer to make his work beautiful.

The word can be pronounced as it is spelt. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is /prI-mu(r)/

31. Bomb

A container filled with explosive or incendiary material, designed to explode on impact or when detonated by a timing, proximity, or remote-control device.
Bomb in a sentence: A new type of bomb has been invented by the terrorist group.
You have probably mispronounced this word with the last ‘B’. The B is meant to be silent.
The word sounds Bom
Transcription is /bom/

32. Comb

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

A strip of plastic, metal, or wood with a row of narrow teeth, used for untangling or arranging the hair.
Comb in a sentence: It was Sally’s comb I used.
The word sounds kowm 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is /kəʊm/

33. Lamb

A young sheep.
Lamb in a sentence: Mary has a little lamb.
The word sounds like lam. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

The last letter in lamb is silent.

Transcription is  /lam/

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34. Vegetable

A plant or part of a plant used as food, such as a cabbage, potato, turnip, or bean.
Vegetable in a sentence: What types of vegetable would you like in your meal?
The first three letter sounds like vej, the final letters sound tuh-bl 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

The fouth and last last ‘e’ are silent. 
Transcription is /ve-j(i)-tu-bul/

35. Victuals

Victuals in a sentence: Madam is a very nice person. She got victuals for the homeless kids.

The word looks similar to virtual and you would have thought the pronunciation will be similar but that is not the case.

It is pronounced as vi-tl 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is  /vi-t(u)l)

Victuals is a stock or supply of foods.

36. Colonel

A commissioned military officer in the United States Army or Air Force or Marines who ranks above a lieutenant colonel and below a brigadier general.
Colonel in a sentence: I am so happy my brother is now a colonel.
The word sounds quite similar to kernel but you give the right pronunciation when you pronounce it as kuh-nuhl. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is  /kur-n(u)l/ 

37. Waistcoat

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

A man’s sleeveless garment worn underneath a coat.
Waistcoat in a sentence: adding a waistcoat to your attire will be great.
The word sounds as it is spelt.

However, the middle t should be silent 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is /weys(t),kowt/ 

38. Debt

A sum of money that is owed or due.
Debt in a sentence: Kofi has paid his debt.

You might have mispronounced this word with the inclusion of the ‘b’. Maybe because it sounds similar to death.

Debt is pronounced as det. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

Transcription is: /det/

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39. Jojoba

An oil extracted from the seeds of an American shrub, widely used in cosmetics.
Jojoba in a sentence: Aisha was glad to get jojoba at the store today. 

Jo in jojoba is pronounced as ho 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is: [ həˈhəʊ.bə ]

40. Chutzpah

An extreme self-confidence or audacity.
Chutzpah in a sentence: Though the whole class claimed to hate Sally, majority admires her chutzpah.
The ‘c’ is silent, making the word sound something like hut-bah.

Chutz as in huts. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is: /huts-paa/

41. Executive

An executive is a person with senior managerial responsibility in business.
Executive in a sentence: Her heart was in her mouth when she was summoned into the Executive’s office.
The word sounds ig-ze-ku-tiv.
Transcription is: /ig’ze-kyu-tiv/

42. Dessert

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

The sweet course eaten at the end of a meal.
Dessert in a sentence: My best dessert is velvet cupcake.
De in Dessert is pronounced like De in Develop as in DI.
Transcription is: /di’zurt/

43. Plumber

A plumber is a craftsman who installs and repairs pipes and fixtures and appliances.
Plumber in a sentence: I need to get a plumber as soon as possible.
The ‘b’ in plumber is silent making it sound like plumer
Transcription is: [ ˈplʌm.ər ]

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44. Bass

The lowest adult male singing voice.
Bass in a sentence: Sharon has a Bass voice
The word sounds like bais. Until the time of this compilation, I do pronounce this word as bars. Lol

Whereas, it should be pronounced the same way you pronounce base.
Transcription is: [ beɪs ]

45. Saloon

A public room or building used for a specified purpose.
Saloon in a sentence: The saloon has only two doors.
The word sounds something like suh-lun; with a stress on the ‘oo’.

The first two letters are often mispronounced as sa or sir.
Transcription is: [ səˈluːn ]

46. Buffet

A buffet is a meal consisting of several dishes from which guests serve themselves.
Buffet in a sentence: I love parties where there is a buffet.
The word sounds something like bu-fei.
Transcription is: [ ˈbʊf.eɪ ]

47. Nike

Nike is originally a Greek word used in Greek mythology to describe winged goddess of victory, identified with Roman Victoria.
However, in recent times, this word is tagged as a brand name for an American multinational corporation that is engaged in the design, development, manufacturing, and worldwide marketing and sales of footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories, and services.
Nike in a sentence: Why do you love Nike footwears?
The word sounds ni- kee with a stress on the I. As in the word- nine.
Transcription is: [ ˈnaɪkɪ ]

48. Raspberry

An edible soft fruit related to the blackberry, consisting of a cluster of reddish-pink drupelets.
Raspberry in a sentence: Raspberry is the ideal brain food.
The first four word-rasp sounds like raz. The p is silent.

When pronounced together, you have something like raz-buri.

This looks funny, right? 😛 

Transcription is: [ ˈrɑːz.bər.i ]

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49. Gigantic

Something that is exceedingly large as to suggest a giant or mammoth.
Gigantic in a sentence: The Estate is known for its gigantic buildings.
The word is best pronounced as jai-gan-tick
Transcription is: [ ˌdʒaɪˈɡæn.tɪk ]

50. Adolescent

A juvenile between the onset of puberty and maturity.
Adolescent in a sentence: Adolescent stage comes with its challenges.
The word is pronounced a-duh-leh-sunt. The ‘le’ as in learn not live. 

The letter u before nt is silent
Transcription is: /a-du’le-s(u)nt/

51. Granite

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

A very hard, granular, crystalline, igneous rock consisting mainly of quartz, mica, and feldspar and often used as a building stone.
Granite in a sentence: The builder requested for a trailer of granite

You probably have mispronounced this word as gra-night.

The ‘e’ is silent, making the word sound as gra-nit.
Transcription is: /gra-nit/

52. Automobiles

A motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine.
Automobile in a sentence: What model of automobile is that?
The word is pronounced or-to-mo-bill
Transcription is [ ˈɔː.tə.mə.biːl ]

53. Gross

Before any deductions.
Gross in a sentence: She gave the gross price.
The word sounds similar to grows
Transcription is [ ɡrəʊs ]

54. Rendezvous

A meeting at an agreed time and place.
Rendezvous in a sentence: This place will be suitable for our rendezvous.
The first three letter sounds like ‘run’ not ‘ren’ as in rent.

The word sounds like run-dey-voo
Transcription is [ ˈrɒn.deɪ.vuː ]

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55. Women

A term used for adult females.
Women in a sentence: There are few women in the meeting.
The word sounds like we-men
Transcription is [ ˈwɪmɪn ]

56. Lettuce

A cultivated plant of the daisy family, with edible leaves that are eaten in salads.
Lettuce in a sentence: Richard always picks out lettuce from his garden.
The word is pronounced as Let-is with the stress on the second syllable.

Transcription is [ ˈlet.ɪs ]

57. Tuition

A fee paid for instruction.
Tuition in a sentence: The tuition is a whole lot of money.
The right pronunciation reveals a stress on the ‘I’ sound.

Don’t mispronounce it by saying tu-tion

The right pronunciation sounds as it is spelt like Tu-i-tion
Transcription is [ tjuːˈɪʃ.ən ]

58. Calcium

The chemical element of atomic number 20, a soft grey metal.
Calcium in a sentence: Calcium is a very good element for bone and teeth development.

If you do mispronounce this word like kal-shium, you’ve been saying the wrong thing.
This word is pronounced as kal-see-uhm
Transcription is: [ ˈkæl.si.əm ]

59. Elite

A term used to describe a select group that is superior in terms of ability or qualities to the rest of a group or society.
Elite in a sentence: He came from an elite family.

This is pronounced as E-Lit. The E in Egg and the Lit pronounced together.
Transcription is [ ɪˈliːt ]

60. Vehicle

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

A thing used for transporting people or goods, especially on land, such as a car, lorry, or cart.
Vehicle in a sentence: A vehicle was stolen in the neighbourhood.
The word is pronounced Vee-I-kul.
Transcription is [ ˈviːəkl ]

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61. Miracle

Any amazing or wonderful occurrence.
Miracle in a sentence: His healing was a miracle
The word is pronounced as mi-ri-cool
Transcription is [ ˈmɪr.ɪ.kl̩ ]

62. Oven

An oven is an enclosed compartment, usually part of a cooker, for cooking and heating food.
Oven in a sentence: I just got a new oven.
This word sounds like Ah-vun.
Transcription is [ ˈʌvn ]

63. Baggage

Cases used to carry belongings when travelling.
Baggage in a sentence: We were asked to bring small baggage.
The word sounds like bagij
Transcription is [ ˈbæɡɪdʒ ]

64. College

An educational institution or establishment that provides higher education, specialized professional or vocational training.
College in a sentence: My neighbour’s son is graduating from college next Saturday.
The ‘llege’ in College is pronounced ‘lij’.

It sounds like college ko-lij
Transcription is [ ˈkɒlɪdʒ ]

65. Expatiate

Speak or write in detail about.
Expatiate in a sentence: The Doctor asked me to expatiate more on my seminar topic.
The second syllable – pa – is pronounced as it is in paint.

It sounds like /ik’spey-sheeyt/
Transcription is [ ekˈspeɪ.ʃi.eɪt ]

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66. Environment

The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates.
Environment in a sentence: A clean environment is ideal.
The ‘en’ is pronounced as ‘in’

It sounds like in-vai-run-munt/
Transcription: [ ɪnˈvaɪrənmənt ]

67. Matrix

The cultural, social, or political environment in which something develops.
Matrix in a sentence: Her belief serves as the matrix of her new book.
The is pronounced may-trix, with a stress on the ‘may’.
Transcription is [ ˈmeɪ.trɪks ]

68. Definition

A statement of the exact meaning of a word, especially in a dictionary.
Definition in a sentence: I really love the definition Debby gave when the Teacher asked what power meant.

Well, I have heard people mispronounce …nition in definition as nation.
The word is pronounced as it is spelt – de-fi-ni-shin.
Transcription is [ ˌdefɪˈnɪʃn ]

69. Government

The organization that is the governing authority of a political unit.
Government in a sentence: The government signed the law into effect yesterday.
The ‘er’ in the second syllable sounds like ‘u’.

So, the word is pronounced gur-vu-ment. The n is silent.
Transcription is [ ˈɡʌvənmənt ]

70. Village

A community of people smaller than a town
Village in a sentence: Mr Alli travelled to his village last week.
Many people are guilty of this as they mispronounce it by placing the stress on the ‘la’, it’s wrong!

The word is pronounced vi-lij.
Transcription is /vi-lij/

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71. Longevity

Long existence or service.
Longevity in sentence: Mr Adams assured us of the longevity of the product.
This word is pronounced lon-je-vi-tee, where je sounds like je in jelly.
Transcription is [ lɒnˈdʒev.ə.ti ]

72. Precious

Meaning: Characterized by feeling or showing fond affection for
Precious in a sentence: You are precious to me.
The correct pronunciation of this word shows stress on the ‘pre’.

It sounds like pre-shus
Transcription is [ ˈpreʃ.əs ]

73. Adobe

A kind of clay used as a building material.
Adobe in a sentence: Those are adobe houses.

You mispronounce this word when you omit the – e
The correct pronunciation of this word sounds a-dow-bee. ‘a’ as in apple. Transcription is [ əˈdəʊ.bi ]

74. Myth

A traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining a natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events.
Myth in a sentence: The teacher told a myth. 
The word sounds like mith , not ‘my-th’ or meat. 
Transcription is [ mɪθ ]

75. Thumb

100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English

The thick short innermost digit of the forelimb.
Thumb in a sentence: My baby has stopped sucking her thumb.
The word sounds something like thuhm.
Transcription is /θʌm/

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76. Balloon

A large tough non-rigid bag filled with gas or heated air.
Balloon in a sentence: Children love balloon.
The last four letters are pronounced as ‘lon’ as in long.

Therefore, the word sounds like bar-lon.
Transcription is [ ˈbælən ]

77. Chaos

Complete disorder and confusion.

Chaos in a sentence:  The village was in chaos due to the kidnapping of her King.
The correct pronunciation sounds something like kay-us.

Transcription is [ ˈkeɪ.ɒs ]

78. Sachet

A small bag or packet containing a small quantity of something.
Sachet in a sentence: Kindly help me get a sachet of salt when coming.
The‘t’ in this word is silent.

It sounds like sa-shey

Transcription is [ ˈsæʃ.eɪ ]

79. Quay

A wharf usually parallel to the shoreline.
Quay in a sentence: I hope to see a quay someday.
This word sounds exactly like key.

So stop committing the error of pronouncing the qua as in quake.
Transcription is /kiː/

80. Fuel

A material such as coal, gas, or oil that burns to produce heat or power.
Fuel in a sentence: Fuel is usually highly flammable.
The word sounds like fyool.
Transcription is [ ˈfjuːəl ]

81. Gear

A toothed wheel that works with others to alter the relation between the speed of a driving mechanism (such as the engine of a vehicle) and the speed of the driven parts (the wheels).
Gear in a sentence: He discovered his gear wasn’t working.
It is pronounced as gi-a.
Transcription is [ ɡɪə(r) ]

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82. Google

A search engine that uses text-matching techniques to find web pages that are important and relevant to a user’s search.
Google in a sentence: Google is a friend to anyone who loves to learn. 
There is a stress on the ‘oo’ like good. Google sounds like goo-gul
Transcription is [ ˈɡuː.ɡl̩ ]

83. Amoeba

Naked freshwater, marine or parasitic protozoa that form temporary pseudopods for feeding and locomotion.
Amoeba in a sentence:  Amoeba has an irregular shape.
The ‘oe’ in Amoeba is pronounced as ‘I’ or ‘ee’ in the word – keep.
Transcription is [ əˈmiː.bə ]

84. Apostle

An important early teacher of Christianity or a Christian missionary to people.
Apostle in a sentence: Sally’s father is an Apostle.
The t is silent and the entire word is pronounced as a-po-sul
Transcription is [ əˈpɒs.l̩ ]

85. Ballet

Ballet is an artistic dance form using precise and highly formalized set steps and gestures. 
In a sentence: I got registered for a ballet class
The word is pronounced ba-lei
Transcription is [ ˈbæl.eɪ ]

86. Stipend

A stipend is a fixed regular sum that serves as a salary or expenses to a clergyman, teacher, or public official.
Stipend in a sentence: The Federal Government promised to pay the youths some stipend.
The word is pronounced as stai-pend.
Transcription is [ ˈstaɪ.pend ]

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87. Sword

This is a cutting or thrusting weapon that has a long metal blade and a hilt with a handguard.
Sword in a sentence: The Chinese man fights with his sword.
The word is pronounced as sawed, the ‘w’ and ‘r’ being silenced like sord 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ sɔːd ]

88. Verbatim

Meaning: The same word used by the writer or speaker.
Verbatim in a sentence: Bose repeated what her uncle said verbatim.
The word is pronounced as ver-bay-tim 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ vɜːˈbeɪ.tɪm ]

89. Listen

To pay attention to a sound.
Listen in a sentence: We were advised to listen attentively to the preacher.

Some people mispronounce this with the t. No, the t is silent. 
The word is correctly pronounced as li-sin. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is /li-sn/

90. Fasten

Close or do up securely.
Fasten in a sentence: Fasten up your seat belt.
The word is pronounced ‘far-sin’ 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription: [ ˈfɑːsn ]

91. Hasten

Meaning: be quick to do something.
Hasten in a sentence: The driven hasten the old man.
The word is pronounced ‘hey-sin’ 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ ˈheɪ.sən ]

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92. Albeit

This means even though
Albeit in a sentence: The song was interesting albeit long.
The ‘al’ sounds similar to the ‘or’ in orbit.

Pronounced as Ol-bee-it 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ ɔːlˈbiː.ɪt ]

93. Cache

Cache is a collection of items of the same type in a hidden or inaccessible place.
The security men found a cache of stolen meat.
This word is pronounced in the same manner as ‘cash’. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ kæʃ ]

94. Coup

A sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force
Coup in a sentence: A coup was declared
Sounds like ‘coo’ 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ kuː ]

95. Coupon

Coupon is a voucher entitling the holder to a discount on a particular product.
I was given a coupon at the supermarket
Coupon in a sentence: This word is pronounced as koo-pon 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ ˈkuː.pɒn ]

96. Debut

A person’s first appearance or performance in a particular capacity or role.
Debut in a sentence: Her debut in the movie was a counsellor.
The ‘t’ in this word is silent and the word pronounced as day-biu 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ ˈdeɪ.bju ]

97. Divorce

This is the legal dissolution of a marriage by a court or other competent body.
Divorce in a sentence: She was not granted the divorce papers
The word is pronounced as ‘Di-vors’ 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English Di in Dip.
Transcription is [ dɪˈvɔːs ]

98. Juice

This is the liquid part that is from plant or animal tissue by squeezing or cooking.
Juice in a sentence: Let us get some pineapple juice
The word sounds like jus. ‘Ju’ as in July. 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ dʒuːs ]

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99. Local

This relates to a particular area or one’s neighbourhood.
Local in a sentence: Her family lives in a local environment.
The ‘cal’ does not sound like ‘car’ but cool. So the pronunciation is low-cool 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ ˈləʊkl ]

100. Coexist

Exist together.
Coexist in a sentence: The northerners have agreed to coexist with the southerners.
The word sounds like it is spelt /ko-ig-zist/ 100 Commonly Mispronounced Words In English
Transcription is [ ˌkəʊ.ɪɡˈzɪst ]

101. Excellency

A title or form of address given to certain high officials of state, especially ambassadors, or of the Roman Catholic Church.
Excellency in a sentence: His Excellency is around.
The ‘ex’ sounds like ‘ek’. It does not sound like the ‘ex’ in expel.
Transcription: /ek-su-lun(t)-see/

102. Gadget

A gadget is a small mechanical or electronic device or tool, especially an ingenious or novel one.
Gadget in a sentence: That is a gadget store.
The word sounds like ga-jut
Transcription: /ga-jit/

103. Via

Travelling through (a place) en route to a destination.
Via in a sentence: She went via the public market to the King’s Palace.
The word sounds like vire
Transcription: /vI-u/

104. Directed

Having a specified direction
Directed in a sentence: I was directed to the tuck shop.
The ‘ed’ is silent.
Transcription is /di’rek-tid/

105. Emergency

A sudden unforeseen circumstance (usually involving danger) that requires immediate action.
Emergency in a sentence: Madam Betty was rushed to the emergency room.
The first ‘E’ sounds like ‘I’ as in immediate, not ‘e’ as in egg. There is also a stress on the ‘cy’ making it sound like see
Transcription is /I’mur-jun(t)-see/

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106. Temperature

The degree or intensity of heat present in a substance or object, especially as expressed according to a comparative scale and shown by a thermometer or perceived by touch.
Temperature in a sentence: Thermometer is an instrument used to measure temperature.
The word sounds like temp-puh-a-chuh. The ‘a’ does not sound like /a/ as action but a, as in a,b,c…
Transcription is /tem-p(u)ru-chu/

107. Espresso

Strong black coffee brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely-ground coffee beans.
Espresso- The Doctor loves having Espresso every morning.
The word is pronounced is-spreh-sow
Transcription is /e’spre-sow/

108. Faux pas

An embarrassing or tactless act or remark in a social situation.
Faux pas in a sentence- A series of faux pas led to her committing suicide.
The ‘x’ and ‘s’ in this word is silent.
Transcription is /fow’paa/

109. Towel

A piece of thick absorbent cloth or paper used for drying oneself or wiping things dry.
Towel in a sentence: Pass me the towel.
The correct pronunciation of this word sounds something like ta-wo.
Transcription is /taw(-u)l/

110. Receipt

The action of receiving something or the fact of its being received.
Receipt in a sentence- I collected receipt for everything I bought
For you to rightly pronounced this word, the ‘p’ has to be silent. Making the word sound like ‘receit’
Transcription is /ri’seet/

111. Extempore

Spoken or done without preparation
The lecture was extempore
The word is pronounced uhkstem·puh·ree
Transcription is /ik’stem-pu-ree/

112. Environment

The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates.
This is a clean environment.
The ‘e’ does not sound as /e/. It is pronounced as the ‘e’ in example
Transcripton is /in’vI-ru(n)-munt/

113. Wi-fi

A facility allowing computers, smartphones, or other devices to connect to the Internet or communicate with one another wirelessly within a particular area.
Is the Wi-fi switched on?
It is pronounced Why-fai. The stress is on the two syllable.

114. Chalk

A white soft earthy limestone (calcium carbonate) formed from the skeletal remains of sea creatures.
The teacher requested for a piece of chalk.
The word is pronounced chawk
Transcription is /chok/

115. Nation

A large body of people united by common descent, history, culture, or language, inhabiting a particular country or territory.
Nigeria is a blessed nation.
The word is pronounced nei-shn.
Transcription is /ney-shun/

116. Communication

The imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing or using some other medium.
She has an excellent communication skill.
There is stress on the second and fourth syllable.
Transcription is /ku,myoo-nu’key-shun/

117. Education

The process of receiving or giving systematic instruction, especially at a school or university.
Education is beyond schooling
The ‘du’ is pronounced as ‘jhu’
Transcription is /e-ju’key-sh(u)n/

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118. Adjacent

Next to or adjoining something else.
Our house is opposite the park.
This word is pronounced a-jei-cent. The ‘a’ as in ‘able.
Transcription is /u’jey-sunt/

119. Minor

Lesser in importance, seriousness, or significance.
Minor in a sentence: Eve was angry because she was considered a minor
Transcription: |ˈmʌɪnə

120. Tourism

The business of providing services to tourists

Tourism in a sentence: I believe I will get a Tourism  job
The correct pronunciation of the word sounds like two-ri-zm
Transcription: |ˈtʊərɪz(ə)m|  

121. Exacerbated

Make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse
Exacerbated in a sentence- Madam White exacerbated the issue.
The word is rightly pronounced as ig-za-suh-bei-tid
Transcription: |ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪtɪd|

122. Social 

A party of people assembled to promote sociability and communal activity.

Social in a sentence: I never knew the meeting was a social gathering.

The word is rightly pronounced as sow-shl
Transcription: |ˈsəʊʃ(ə)l|

123. Ecosystem

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
Ecosystem in a sentence: Our new study topic in Biology is on Ecosystem.
The word is rightly pronounced as ee-kow-si-stm. The ‘e’ as in the word ‘evil’
Transcription: |ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm|  

124. Ecological

Characterized by the interdependence of living organisms in an environment.

Ecological in a sentence: The release of the poisonous gas into the ocean led to an ecological upset
The word is rightly pronounced ee·kuh·lo·juh·kl
Transcription: |iːkəˈlɒdʒɪk(ə)l| 

125. Procrastination

The act of procrastinating; putting off or delaying or defering an action to a later time.

Procrastination in a sentence: Procrastination is indeed a thief f time.

The word is rightly pronounced pruh·kra·stuh·nei·shn

Transcription: |prə(ʊ)ˌkrastɪˈneɪʃ(ə)n| 

126. Acaí

A South American palm tree producing small edible blackish-purple berries.
The right pronunciation for this word sounds like aa-sa-yi
Transcription is /aˈsʌɪiː,asʌɪˈiː/

127. Flautist

A flute player.
Flautist in a sentence: Sally’s dream is to become a flautist

The right pronunciation for this word is flaw-tist
Transcription is |ˈflɔːtɪst|

128. GIF

A lossless format for image files that supports both animated and static images.
GIF in a sentence: Can you kindly show me how to use a GIF on this application?
This word has the same pronunciation as the word ‘give’. Oftentimes, people pronounce this word as though it is an abbreviation. Lol
Transcription is /ɡɪf,dʒɪf/

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129. Experience

The accumulation of knowledge or skill that results from direct participation in events or activities

Experience in a sentence: She had a really bad experience with her Ex-boyfriend

The word is pronounced e·speeuh·ree·uhns. The ‘e’ as in evil
Transcription is |ɪkˈspɪərɪəns| 

130. Luxury 

A state of great comfort or elegance, especially when involving great expense.
Luxury in a sentence: I want a luxury life.

The right pronunciation of this word is luhk-shuh-ree

Transcription is |ˈlʌkʃ(ə)ri|

131. Suitable

Meant or adapted for an occasion or use

Suitable in a sentence: The shop attendant asked if the cloth is suitable for the purpose of purchase.

There is a stress on the ‘suit’ making it sound like sweet.

Transcription is |ˈsuːtəb(ə)l| 

132. Schedule

A temporally organized plan for matters to be attended to

Schedule in a sentence: I have a really tight schedule.
The right pronunciation of this word is sheh-jool

Transcription is |ˈʃɛdjuːl| 

133. Director 

A person who is in charge of an activity, department, or organization.
Director in a sentence: Daniel is the new Director of our organization.

The ‘I’ is silence, therefore making the right pronunciation of the word sound like ‘d-rec-tor’

Transcription is  |dɪˈrɛktə|

134. Executive

Relating to or having the power to put plans or actions into effect.

Executive in a sentence: Tola was best at the executive postion.

The right pronunciation of this word is Eg-zeh·kyuh·tuhv
Transcription is  |ɪɡˈzɛkjʊtɪv|

135. Endeavour

A purposeful or industrious undertaking (especially one that requires effort or boldness)
Endeavour in a sentence: Her endeavor is to be a successful entrepreneur.

The ‘n’ in this word is silent. Therefore making the word sound something like ‘E-dea-vour’. The ‘e’ as in the word ‘evil’
 Transcription is  |ɪnˈdɛvə| 

136. Exclusively

Without any others being included or involved.

The wedding was exclusively for friends and family.
Exclusively in a sentence: The word sounds like ik-skloo-siv-lee
Transcription is  |ɪkˈskluːsɪvli| 

137. Deposit

The phenomenon of sediment or gravel accumulating.
The word sounds like duh-po-zuh

Deposit in a sentence: There was a deposit of sand at the new site.
Transcription is   |dɪˈpɒzɪt|

138. Market

The world of commercial activity where goods and services are bought and sold.
Market in a sentence: I hope to sell the jewellery at the market.
The word is rightly pronounced as ‘mar-kit’
Transcription is |ˈmɑːkɪt| 

140. Target 

A reference point to shoot at.
Target in a sentence: To get a good shot, you have to target the hole.

The word is rightly pronounced as ‘ta-git’
Transcription is  |ˈtɑːɡɪt| 

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141. Says

Utter words so as to convey information, an opinion, a feeling or intention, or an instruction.
Says in a sentence: He simply quoted what the Bible says.
Transcription is: |ˈsez|

142. Economic

Using the minimum of time or resources necessary for effectiveness.
Economic in a sentence: An economic use of fuel
The ‘Ec’ sounds something like ‘ik’

Transcription is  |ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk| 

143. Exact

Claim as due or just.
Exact in a sentence: Can you tell me your exact reason of visit?
The word s rightly pronounced as ‘ig-zact’

Transcription is  |ɪɡˈzakt

144. Social 

A party of people assembled to promote sociability and communal activity.
Social in a sentence: It was a social gathering.
The word is rightly pronounced as ‘sow-shl’

Transcription is  |ˈsəʊʃ(ə)l|

145. Exhaust

Gases ejected from an engine as waste products. 
Exhaust in a sentence: Most cars in Lagos emits exhaust.
The ‘x’ in this word is silent.

Transcription is  |ɪɡˈzɔːst| 

146. Exhibit

An object or statement produced before a court of law and referred to while giving evidence.
Exhibit in a sentence: we are so glad we have a chance to exhibit our product at the fare.
The right pronunciation of this word sounds like ‘ig-zi-bit’
|ɪɡˈzɪbɪt|
Transcription is

147. Vehicle 

A conveyance that transports people or objects.
Vehicle: Mr. Adams just got a new vehicle.
The right pronunciation of the word is ‘vi-hi-cle’

 |ˈviːɪk(ə)l|  

148. Come

Move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody.
Come in a sentence: Kindly come forward.
The word is stressed so it sounds something like ‘kuhm’
Transcription is |kʌm|

149. Baggage

Cases used to carry belongings when traveling.
Baggage in a sentence: The baggage belongs to me.

Transcription is  |ˈbaɡɪdʒ|

150. Especially

To a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common.

Especially in a sentence: The program is for youths, especially age range 18-30. Transcription is  |ɪˈspɛʃ(ə)li|

151. Equipment

An instrumentality needed for an undertaking or to perform a service.
Equipment in a sentence: The office next door acquired a new equipment
The ‘q’ is silent, making this word sound, ‘e-kwip-ment.’

Transcription is  |ɪˈkwɪpm(ə)nt|

152. Receipt

The act of receiving.
Receipt in a sentence: He acknowledged the receipt of the baggage.
The right pronunciation of this word is ‘ruh-seet.’ 
Transcription is |rɪˈsiːt|

153. Suite

Apartment consisting of a series of connected rooms used as a living unit (as in a hotel). 
Suite in a sentence- Mr. Harry lodged in Suite 113, Radison Hotel.
The word sounds like sweet. Now, you feel like having some sweets, lol
Transcription is  |swiːt|

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154. Climb

An upward slope or grade.

Climb in a sentence: The Electrician had to take a climb to fix the problem.
The ‘b’ in this word is silent.

Transcription is  |klʌɪm|/

155. Subtle

Difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze
Subtle in sentence: This equation is quite subtle.
The right pronunciation of this word goes, ‘suh-tl’
Transcription is|ˈsʌt(ə)l|

156. Debt

This is a sum of money that is owed or due.
Debt in a sentence: Kofi has paid his debt.
Oftentimes, we are tempted to pronounce this word with the inclusion of the ‘b’. Maybe because it sounds similar to death. Therefore debt is pronounce as det.

Transcription is: /det/

157. Dumb

Slow to learn or understand; lacking intellectual acuity 
Dumb in a sentence: The Professor likes to make us feel dumb
Transcription is: |dʌm|
The ‘b’ in this word is silent. The right pronunciation is ‘duhm’

158. Plumber

A craftsman who installs and repairs pipes and fixtures and appliances.
Plumber in a sentence: I need to get a plumber as soon as possible.
The ‘b’ in plumber is silent making it sound like plumer
Transcription is: /plu-mu/

159. Sachet

A small sealed bag or packet containing a small quantity of something.
Sachet in a sentence: Give me a sachet of lavender.
The word is rightly pronounced as ‘sa-shei’
Transcription is /ˈsaʃeɪ/

160. Often

Many times at short intervals.
Often in a sentence: The baby cries often.
The ‘t’ in this word is silent.
Transcription is |ˈɒf(ə)n|

161. Rapport 

A relationship of mutual understanding or trust and agreement between people.
Rapport in a sentence: The HR has a good rapport with his staff.
The right pronunciation of the word is ‘rappo’
Transcription is|raˈpɔː|

162. Leopard

Large feline of African and Asian forests usually having a tawny coat with black spots.
Leopard in a sentence: Is a Leopard bigger than a Lion?
The right pronunciation of this word is ‘Le-puhd.’ The ‘o’ is silent

163. Felix

A latin name which means lucky or successful.
Felix in a sentence: The baby was christened Felix.
This word is rightly pronounced as ‘Fi-liks’

Transcription is /ˈfiːlɪks/

164. Fuel

A substance that can be consumed to produce energy.
Fuel in a sentence: The removal of subsidy from fuel price has done more harm than good tot the nation.

The word sounds similar to hill. However, the correct pronunciation is ‘fyool.’
Transcription is |ˈfjuːəl|

165. Esteem

The condition of being honoured.
Esteem in a sentence: Mr. Wale loves the esteem he got from his employees on his retirement.
The ‘e’ is in ‘esteem’ is pronounced as  ‘e’ in  ‘evil’ not ‘energy’
Transcription is |ɪˈstiːm|

166. Machete 

A large heavy knife used in Central and South America as a weapon or for cutting vegetation.
Machete: Get me the machete.

Every syllable of this word is stressed.  The right pronunciation sounds ‘maa-sheh-tee’
Transcription is  |məˈtʃɛti|

167. Bomb

A container filled with explosive or incendiary material, designed to explode on impact or when detonated by a timing, proximity, or remote-control device.
Bomb in a sentence: A new type of bomb has been invented by the terrorist group.
Majority are guilty of pronouncing this word with the last ‘B’. The B is meant to be silent.
The word sounds Bom
Transcription is /bom/

168. Listen

To pay attention to a sound.
Listen in a sentence: We were advised to listen attentively to the preacher.
The word is correctly pronounced as li-sn.
Transcription is /li-sun/

169. Gnat

A small two-winged fly that resembles a mosquito. Gnats include both biting and non-biting forms, and they typically form large swarms.
Gnat in a sentence: The doctor said it was a gnat bite and nothing more.
The ‘g’ in this word is silent, therefore the word sounds like ’nat’.

Transcription is |næt|

170. Indict

Accuse formally of a crime.
Indict in a sentence: Gab said he will indict the young man for theft.
The correct pronunciation of this word sounds ‘in-dait’
Transcription is |ɪnˈdʌɪt|

171. Isle

A small island.
Isle in a sentence: Someday, I will visit the Isle of Anglesey.
The word is pronounced as ‘ail’
Transcription is   |aɪl|

172. Tombstone 

A stone that is used to mark a grave.
Tombstone in a sentence: Names of the deceased are usually inscribed on tombstones.
The ‘b’ in this word is silent.
Transcription is  |ˈtuːmstəʊn|

173. Anaemia 

A lack of vitality.
Anaemia in a sentence: The little boy has anaemia.
There is a stress on the second syllable of this word, therefore the ‘nae’ is pronounced as ‘nee.’
Transcription is |əˈniːmɪə|  

174. Athlete

A person trained to compete in sports.
Athlete in a sentence: I have a friend who is an athlete.
The word is pronounced: ath-leet
Transcription is |ˈaθliːt|

175. Psyche

That which is responsible for one’s thoughts, feelings, and conscious brain functions; the seat of the faculty of reason.
Psyche in a sentence:
Transcription is |ˈsʌɪki|

176. Benefit

Financial assistance in time of need.
Benefit in a sentence: There is a lot of benefit involved.
The word sounds exactly as it is spelt.
Transcription is|ˈbɛnɪfɪt|

177. Bonafide

Genuine; real.
Bonafide in a sentence: I am a bonafide member.
The word sounds exactly as it is spelt.

178. Coup 

A sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force.
Coup in a sentence: The citizen decided a coup against the president.
The correct pronunciation of this word is ‘cou’ with the ‘p’ silent.
Transcription is |kuː|

179. Chaos 

A state of extreme confusion and disorder.
Chaos in a sentence: The market was in a state of chaos at the sound of a gunshot.
The word is rightly pronounced as,’kei-us.’
Transcription is |ˈkeɪɒs|

180. Chalet

A swiss house with a sloping roof and wide eaves or a house built in this style.
Chalet: He dreams to have a chalet.
The ‘t’ in this word is silent, making the word sound, ‘sha-lei.’
Transcription is:

181. Edict 

A formal or authoritative proclamation.
Edict in a sentence: I have given my edict.
The ‘e’ is as in ‘evil’
Transcription is |ˈiːdɪkt|

182. Edition

The form in which a text (especially a printed book) is published.
Edition in a sentence: What edition of the general mathematics textbook do you have?
The correct pronunciation of this word is ‘uh-di-shn.’
Transcription is:|ɪˈdɪʃ(ə)n|

183. Emeritus 

A professor or minister who is retired from assigned duties.
Emeritus in a sentence: Joe’s dad is an emeritus.
Transcription is:|ɪˈmɛrɪtəs|

184. Era 

A period marked by distinctive character or reckoned from a fixed point or event.
Era in a sentence: We are in a delicate era.
|ˈɪərə|

185. Elite 

A group or class of persons enjoying superior intellectual or social or economic status.
Elite in a sentence: Her family is elite.
Transcription is |eɪˈliːt|

186. Gigantic

So exceedingly large or extensive as to suggest a giant or mammoth.
Gigantic in a sentence: The building is gigantic.
Correct pronunciation is: jai-gan-tik
Transcription is:

187. Sadist

Someone who obtains pleasure from inflicting pain on others.
Sadist in a sentence: A sadist is capable of murder.
The word is rightly pronounced as ‘sai-dist.’
Transcription is:|ˈseɪdɪst|

188. Legalize

Make legal.
Legalize in a sentence: The President refused to legalize homosexuality.
The right pronunciation of this word sounds, ‘lee-ga-laiz.’
Transcription is:|ˈliːɡ(ə)lʌɪz|

189. Liaison

A channel for communication between groups.
Liaison in a sentence: The administrators saw a need for a liaison officer.
The right pronunciation of this word is ‘lee-ei-zon’
Transcription is:|lɪˈeɪz(ə)n|

190. Longevity

Duration of service.
Longevity in a sentence: He was rewarded for his longevity at the industry.
There is a stress on the second syllable of this word making it sound something like, ‘lon-jeh-vi-tee.’
Transcription is:|lɒnˈdʒɛvɪti|

191. Memoir

An account of the author’s personal experiences.
Memoir in a sentence: She wrote her memoir yesterday.
There is stress on the second syllable of this word- ‘moir’, making the word sound like, ‘mem-waa’
Transcription is:|ˈmɛmwɑː|

192. Mete

A line that indicates a boundary.
Mete in a sentence: There is a great need to mete out punishment for the offenders.
This word sounds exactly like the word ‘meet.’
Transcription is:|miːt|

193. Naive

Of or created by one without formal training; simple or naive in style.
Naive in a sentence: The village girl is naive.
The right pronunciation of this word goes, ‘nai-eev.’
Transcription is:|nʌɪˈiːv|

194. Plaque

(pathology) a small abnormal patch on or inside the body.
Plaque in a sentence: Sally has a plaque on her leg.
The correct pronunciation of this word is ‘plak’
Transcription is:|plak|

195. Subpoena

A writ issued by a court authority to compel the attendance of a witness at a judicial proceeding; disobedience may be punishable as a contempt of court.
Subpoena: Mr Balls jas been issued a subpoena.
The right pronunciation of this word is ‘suh-pee-nuh.’

196. Rendezvous 

A meeting at an agreed time and place.
Rendezvous in a sentence: This place will be suitable for our rendezvous.
The first three letter sounds like ‘run’ not ‘ren’ as in rent. The word sounds like ron-di-vo
Transcription is /ron-dey,voo/

197. Soliloquy

Speech you make to yourself 
soliloquy in a sentence: Dan loves to soliloquy.
Correct pronunciation of this word goes, ‘so-li-lo-kwee’
Transcription is:|səˈlɪləkwi|

198. Extravagant

Lacking restraint in spending money or using resources.
Extravagant in sentence: She is extravagant

Correct pronunciation is  Ek-stra-vuh-gnt
Transcription is /ik’stra-vu-gunt/

So, have you also experienced that shock of discovering that there are some words you have mispronounced for a long time?

Now that you have them, how do you feel?

Tell me how much of your mistakes you realized in the comment section.

Don’t forget to also share with your friends and anyone who need to know.

Self-learning Tips to Avoid Mispronouncing English Words

Improving English pronunciation through self-learning involves listening to native speakers in various contexts, such as movies, TV shows, podcasts, and everyday conversations. Utilizing pronunciation apps and websites can provide valuable audio examples and interactive exercises.

Employing a phonetic dictionary for word transcriptions aids in understanding correct pronunciation and stress patterns. Practice tongue twisters to enhance pronunciation and fluency, starting with simpler ones and progressing to more complex ones.

Recording yourself speaking in English using a recording device or phone app allows for self-assessment and comparison with native speakers. Focus on mastering English vowel sounds, especially those absent in your native language. Break down longer words into syllables to practice pronunciation and stress patterns.

Pay attention to the movement of mouths and lips in native speakers and mimic these movements for improved accuracy. Join language exchange groups to practice with native or proficient English speakers and receive valuable feedback.

You can also watch pronunciation videos on digital platforms to observe and imitate native speakers. Patience and persistence are essential, as improvement takes time and consistent effort.

Seek feedback from others to guide your progress and celebrate even small achievements in refining your pronunciation skills. Eventually, you’ll also improve your verbal reasoning skills in English, which you can use to prosper your career and personal development.

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Post Author: Abimbola Joseph

Abimbola Joseph is a creative content developer who derives pleasure in encouraging individuals to be the best they can be in all relevant facets of life. She believes that we all have a better version of ourselves which can be leveraged to impact others and make the world a better place. Connect with me on Instagram @abimbolajoe.

8 Replies to “198 Commonly Mispronounced English Words In Nigeria”

      1. Very wonderful
        Saw a lot of mistakes I make in pronouncing some words,like diffuse,it really shocked me

  1. I use this during school assembly and often time students marvel at the right pronunciation of words. Thank you so much and God bless you

  2. Amazing piece. Very insightful. Wish I can get it in PDF form and audio for correct pronunciation.

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