How to Pronounce Monkey in English
Pronouncing the word “monkey” in English can be quite straightforward, but there are a few nuances to keep in mind to ensure you’re saying it correctly. The word “monkey” is pronounced as /ˈmʌŋ.ki/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). Let’s break down the pronunciation into its individual sounds and syllables to help you get it right.
The first syllable, “mon,” is pronounced as /ˈmʌn/. The “m” sound is a bilabial plosive, which means you’ll need to bring your lips together and then release them to produce the sound. The “o” in “mon” is a diphthong, which means it’s a combination of two vowel sounds. The first vowel sound is the open-mid front unrounded vowel, /ʌ/, and the second vowel sound is the close-mid front unrounded vowel, /ɑː/. To pronounce this diphthong, start with the “u” sound in “put” and then glide towards the “a” sound in “father.”
The second syllable, “key,” is pronounced as /ki/. The “k” sound is a velar plosive, which means you’ll need to use the back of your tongue against the soft part of the roof of your mouth and then release it to produce the sound. The “i” sound is a close front unrounded vowel, /i/, and is pronounced by raising the tip of your tongue towards the roof of your mouth while keeping your lips relaxed.
When putting it all together, the word “monkey” is pronounced as /ˈmʌŋ.ki/. Practice saying the word slowly, focusing on the individual sounds and syllables, and then gradually increase your speed. Remember to keep your mouth relaxed and open to ensure a clear pronunciation. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to pronounce “monkey” in English with confidence.
