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Pronunciation Hacks

July 14, 20252 min read

Student talking each others

Speak More Clearly in English.

Clear pronunciation is key to effective communication in English. Even if your grammar and vocabulary are strong, unclear pronunciation can make it hard for others to understand you. Fortunately, there are simple pronunciation hacks that can quickly boost your clarity and confidence.

1. Focus on Stress and Intonation
English is a stress-timed language, which means some syllables are longer and louder than others. Pay attention to which syllables are stressed in words (e.g.,
PREsent as a noun vs. preSENT as a verb). Also, practice the rise and fall of your voice—this helps your speech sound more natural.

2. Master Difficult Sounds
Certain English sounds can be tricky, especially /θ/ (as in
think), /ð/ (as in this), and the difference between /l/ and /r/. Record yourself, compare with native speakers, and repeat until you’re more comfortable. Apps like Forvo and YouGlish can help with real-life pronunciation examples.

3. Link Your Words
Native speakers often connect words together, a process called
linking. For example, “What are you doing?” often sounds like “Whatcha doin’?” Practice common phrases this way to make your speech smoother.

4. Slow Down and Enunciate
Speaking too fast can make you harder to understand. Slow down slightly, especially when learning. Focus on enunciating each syllable clearly before trying to speed up naturally.

5. Practice with Shadowing
Shadowing involves listening to a native speaker and repeating exactly what they say, as soon as they say it. This helps with rhythm, pronunciation, and fluency. Try using podcasts, audiobooks, or short YouTube clips.

Improving pronunciation doesn’t happen overnight, but with these hacks and consistent practice, you'll speak more clearly—and confidently—before you know it.

Let ASC English Help You Improve.

At ASC English, we don’t just focus on grammar and vocabulary — we help you speak clearly and confidently in real-life situations. Our experienced teachers provide pronunciation feedback, one-on-one support, and opportunities to practice speaking every day. Whether you’re preparing for a job, school, or just want to sound more fluent, we’re here to help you reach your goals.


ASC English is a Boston-based language school offering comprehensive English language programs tailored for international students. Established in 1993, the school has built a strong community by providing high-quality instruction and support to learners at various proficiency levels.

ESLASC EnglishTipsPronunciationSkillsStudents
Back to Blog
Students talking and pointing a computer

Pronunciation Hacks

July 14, 20252 min read

Student talking each others

Speak More Clearly in English.

Clear pronunciation is key to effective communication in English. Even if your grammar and vocabulary are strong, unclear pronunciation can make it hard for others to understand you. Fortunately, there are simple pronunciation hacks that can quickly boost your clarity and confidence.

1. Focus on Stress and Intonation
English is a stress-timed language, which means some syllables are longer and louder than others. Pay attention to which syllables are stressed in words (e.g.,
PREsent as a noun vs. preSENT as a verb). Also, practice the rise and fall of your voice—this helps your speech sound more natural.

2. Master Difficult Sounds
Certain English sounds can be tricky, especially /θ/ (as in
think), /ð/ (as in this), and the difference between /l/ and /r/. Record yourself, compare with native speakers, and repeat until you’re more comfortable. Apps like Forvo and YouGlish can help with real-life pronunciation examples.

3. Link Your Words
Native speakers often connect words together, a process called
linking. For example, “What are you doing?” often sounds like “Whatcha doin’?” Practice common phrases this way to make your speech smoother.

4. Slow Down and Enunciate
Speaking too fast can make you harder to understand. Slow down slightly, especially when learning. Focus on enunciating each syllable clearly before trying to speed up naturally.

5. Practice with Shadowing
Shadowing involves listening to a native speaker and repeating exactly what they say, as soon as they say it. This helps with rhythm, pronunciation, and fluency. Try using podcasts, audiobooks, or short YouTube clips.

Improving pronunciation doesn’t happen overnight, but with these hacks and consistent practice, you'll speak more clearly—and confidently—before you know it.

Let ASC English Help You Improve.

At ASC English, we don’t just focus on grammar and vocabulary — we help you speak clearly and confidently in real-life situations. Our experienced teachers provide pronunciation feedback, one-on-one support, and opportunities to practice speaking every day. Whether you’re preparing for a job, school, or just want to sound more fluent, we’re here to help you reach your goals.


ASC English is a Boston-based language school offering comprehensive English language programs tailored for international students. Established in 1993, the school has built a strong community by providing high-quality instruction and support to learners at various proficiency levels.

ESLASC EnglishTipsPronunciationSkillsStudents
Back to Blog