“Genre” is a term used to describe a category of artistic works, such as music, literature, or film. While it’s a commonly used word, some people may have difficulty pronouncing it correctly. If you want to improve your pronunciation skills, this article will guide you on how to say “genre” correctly in American English.
Break It Down
Before we get into the pronunciation, let’s break the word down into syllables. “Genre” is a two-syllable word, with the emphasis on the first syllable. Here’s how it’s broken down: zhan-ruh.
Emphasize the First Syllable
To pronounce “genre” correctly, you need to emphasize the first syllable, “zhan.” Make this syllable slightly louder and longer than the second syllable.
Pronounce the “zh” Sound
The “zh” sound in “genre” can be tricky for some people. To make this sound, place your tongue behind your upper front teeth and blow air out while making a “j” sound. It should sound like the “s” in “measure.”
Say the Whole Word
Now that you’ve practiced the individual sounds, try saying the whole word: “zhan-ruh.” Remember to emphasize the first syllable and pronounce the “zh” sound correctly.
Listen and Repeat
The best way to improve your pronunciation is to listen to others and repeat what they say. Listen to native speakers pronounce “genre” and repeat after them until you feel confident with your own pronunciation. In summary, to pronounce “genre” correctly in American English, you need to emphasize the first syllable, practice the “zh” sound, say the whole word and listen and repeat. With these tips, you’ll be able to say “genre” with ease and confidence.
