Pronunciation Traps
People almost universally add a completely fake, second "r" to this 7-letter frozen fruit dessert word.
What is sherbet? (The correct dictionary pronunciation is "SHER-bet" or SHER-bit").
The dictionary defines etymology as this specific branch of linguistics.
What is the study of word origins?
The dictionary defines heteronyms as two or more words that share this exact visual trait, but differ in pronunciation and meaning.
What is the same spelling?
The dictionary defines a contranym as a word that possesses this unique linguistic trait.
What is a word with two opposite meanings?
People frequently add a non-existent "x" sound to the beginning of this 8-letter coffee word.
What is espresso? (The correct dictionary pronunciation is "ess-PRESS-oh")
Spelled the same way, this word can mean an arid, sandy environment or the act of abandoning someone.
What is desert? (DEH-zert vs. de-ZERT)
Many speakers add an entire extra syllable, and an extra "i" sound, to this 11-letter word meaning "causing trouble".
What is mischievous? (The correct dictionary pronunciation is "MISS-chiv-us").
This is the specific 14-letter technical term for a person who writes, compiles, and edits dictionaries.
What is a lexicographer?