How to pronounce "spear"

spear

Sports & Recreation
American
/spɪr/

Syllable Breakdown

spear

How natives say spear

British
/spɪə/

Syllable Breakdown

spear

How natives say spear

Pronunciation Guide In American

Pronunciation Steps

  • Start with the 's' sound, like a snake hissing.

  • Quickly move to the 'p' sound, gently releasing air.

  • End with a clear 'ear' sound, as in the word 'ear'.

Common Mistakes

  • spi-ar (splitting the vowel)

  • spe-ar (incorrect vowel sound)

  • spia-r (adding an extra syllable)

Pronunciation Guide In British

Pronunciation Steps

  • Same as American

  • Same as American

  • Emphasize a very slight 'uh' sound after 'ear'.

common mistakes

  • spi-ar (splitting the vowel)

  • spe-ar (incorrect vowel sound)

  • spia-r (adding an extra syllable)

FAQ

Why is the 's' sound important?

It starts the word and affects clarity.

Is the 'r' sound pronounced the same in both accents?

The 'r' sound is clearer in American English.

How to avoid adding extra syllables?

Practice blending sounds smoothly.

Definition

spear

A long weapon with a pointed tip.

Word Family

spearhead

/ˈspɪrˌhɛd/

verb

Lead an attack or movement.

Example: She spearheaded the campaign.

spearfish

/ˈspɪrˌfɪʃ/

verb

Catch fish using a spear.

Example: They spearfish in summer.

spearing

/ˈspɪrɪŋ/

noun

The act of catching or stabbing with a spear.

Example: Spearing is an ancient technique.

Key Pronunciation Differences

Spear vs. spearhead

- 'head' adds extra syllable and stress.

Spear vs. spearfish

- Different ending with '-fish'.

Spear vs. spearing

- 'ing' changes end sound.

Pro Tips

Connecting Sounds

Practice quickly moving from 's' to 'p' with no pause.

Ear Practice

Focus on the 'ear' sound; listen to words like 'cheer'.

Nearby Words

Test Your Pronunciation On Words That Have Sound Similarities With Spear

adventure

/ədˈvɛntʃər/

amateur

/ˈæm.ə.tʃɚ/

appeal

/əˈpil/

appreciate

/əˈpriʃiˌeɪt/

athlete

/ˈæθ.liːt/

ball

/bɔl/

basin

/ˈbeɪ.sən/

basket

/ˈbæskɪt/

Other Categories

Test Your Pronunciation On Words Within Other Categories

adjoin

abroad

ability

agenda