An authority on language has shared a list of the words most commonly mispronounced this year, and it’s surprising which ones made it.
Most individuals strive to pronounce words accurately as it forms the basis of effective communication. However, as we close out the year, it’s both intriguing and humorous to discover which words have been frequently mispronounced.
Noël Wolf, a linguistic and cultural specialist at Babbel, discussed these words with the Mail Online. She stressed how crucial it is to master the pronunciation of words, even when they seem unfamiliar or from another language.
“This year’s list is influenced by major global events, trending songs, and prominent medical terms, all of which have integrated into daily language while presenting unique pronunciation challenges,” she explained.
“Addressing these new words with curiosity and confidence can significantly impact communication. Correct pronunciation, just like learning a new language, enhances communication and strengthens our connection to the cultures from which these words originate.”
So, which words have been repeatedly mispronounced? Some are understandable, while others are unexpectedly on the list.
Collaborating with the British Institute of Verbatim Reporters (BIVR), the Mail provided guidance on perfect pronunciation for each word.
Though seeing the renowned actor Denzel Washington on the list is a bit unexpected, others make sense due to their non-English origins.
The Glyndŵr National Park, a newly established park in northeast Wales, often sees its name mispronounced as ‘Glin–dower’ or ‘Glin–doer’, but the correct pronunciation is ‘glyn–DOOR’.
The word ‘Knafeh’, related to the popular Dubai pistachio chocolate bar, is correctly pronounced ‘cah–NEFF–eh’.
Following a notable heist, the Louvre Museum in Paris made headlines, but its name continues to be pronounced incorrectly. Some reporters exaggerated the silent ‘re’ at the end when it should be ‘LOOV’ with a subtle finish.
The first major storm of 2025 in the UK, named Éowyn by the Met Office, presented another pronunciation challenge, though it might not have been an issue for fans of Lord of the Rings.
Reflect on your own pronunciation habits. Do you get them all right every time?