Word Stress Patterns in English

In multi-syllable words the stress falls on one of the syllables while the other syllables tend to be spoken over quickly. This leads to sounds that are not clear (muted) on unstressed syllables. In order to improve your pronunciation, focus on pronouncing the stressed syllable clearly. However, don't be afraid to "mute" (not say clearly) the other unstressed vowels. Listen to the examples by clicking on "listen". Return to this page using the "back" button on your browser.

For example:

Listen to these specific examples:

PersonNEL
TOtally
InDUstrial
ToMAto
FanTAstic

Unstressed syllables keep the correct sound, but sound muted. Sometimes, unstressed vowels become a schwa sound - like a soft "uh" sound.

For example:

Listen to these specific examples:

Little
Repeat
Tomato

At other times, the vowel is pronounced but not stressed.

For example:

Listen to these specific examples:

Industrial
Noisily

With this in mind, here are the eight common word stress patterns in English.

One Syllable - Stressed

All one syllable words have the stress on the one syllable. The intonation should go down. Listen to the general pattern.

EAT
DRINK
SIGN
WELL

Two Syllable - First Syllable Stressed