What is the proper way to read “during” in English? Is it pronounced as “doo-ring,” or is it “dur-ing”? The answer, in fact, is neither. “During” has a number of homophones—words that sound the same but have different spellings and meanings. In this article, we’ll guide you through the correct way to read this word by exploring some of its most commonly mistaken lookalikes.
The Homophones of “During”
One of the most common misreadings of “during” is the word “durning.” While the latter does not exist in the English language, many people associate it with the sound of “during.” This could be attributed to regional accents or a common mispronunciation that has circulated over time.
Another homophone is “douring.” The word “dour” describes a stern or severe attitude, and if pronounced as “douring,” it may be mistaken for “during.”
Lastly, “Dooring” may be another homophone for “during.” It refers to the accidentally opening of a car door on a cyclist or motorcyclist, which is a common accident in urban settings. While the meaning and spelling of “dooring” differ from “during,” the pronunciation is the same.
Tricks to Remember the Correct Pronunciation
While it may be difficult to differentiate between the various homophones, there are some tricks to remember how to pronounce “during” correctly.
First, break the word up into two separate syllables. Pronounce the “du” and “ring” separately, with a slight pause between the two. This helps you emphasize the “ring” sound more, as opposed to blending the two sounds together into one.
Another trick is to think of the word “duration.” “During” and “duration” share the same root word and meaning. Pronouncing “during” as “dur-ay-shun” or “dur-ay-ing” helps you avoid the homophones altogether.
A Final Note on Pronunciation
English pronunciation can be a tricky aspect of the language to master, especially when it comes to homophones like “during.” The best way to improve your pronunciation skills is to listen carefully to native English speakers and practice speaking with them. Additionally, using a dictionary or language learning app can help you avoid common mistakes and learn the proper pronunciation of words.
Remember, the key to proper English pronunciation is practice and perseverance. Keep at it, and soon you’ll be speaking like a native!
