Friday, October 24, 2008

pronuncation vs. enunciation




http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_the_difference_between_pronunciation_and_enunciation

"Pronunciation" refers to which sounds one says and what stress patterns one uses. For example, does the pronunciation of data resemble "d-at-uh" or "day-tuh"? Is the pronunciation of formidable more like "FORmidable" or "forMIDable"?

[Accuracy in pronunciation is a complex topic, for in America, the only authority, the only standard, is usage.]

"Enunciation" is an old fashioned term. When it was in vogue, is referred to saying sounds correctly. Mumbling, slurring, and lisping were examples of poor enunciation.

Thus, one could enunciate a word poorly but pronounce it accurately, or enunciate it well but pronounce it inaccurately.