Stress: A Simple Guide to Understanding Word and Sentence Stress
Stress is the relative emphasis given to certain syllables in a word or words in a sentence.
What is stress? Stress in English refers to the relative emphasis applied to certain syllables in a word or words in a sentence. It is important to understand the difference between word and sentence stress because stress affects the meaning and clarity of your message. In this guide, we will discuss the rules of word stress, sentence stress, and how to use stress effectively in communication. Word Stress Not all syllables in a word are given equal emphasis (stressed). When a syllable or a word is said louder or longer than the rest, it is considered to be stressed. The rules of word stress vary depending on the number of syllables in a word. Word stress rules Rule 1: For two-syllable nouns and adjectives, stress the first syllable. F or example, "cloudy," "carton," and "table." Rule 2: For verbs with two syllables and prepositions, emphasize the second syllable. For example, "beGIN," "reFER," and "aBOUT." Other Word Stress rules: Fo…