"Comfortable" is one of the most commonly mispronounced words in English. The biggest mistake? Saying all four syllables. Native speakers actually say only THREE syllables. Let's fix this once and for all.
The Correct Pronunciation
Say it like this: KUMF-ter-bul (3 syllables)
NOT like this: com-FOR-ta-bul (4 syllables) ❌
Why Only 3 Syllables?
In natural English speech, the "or" in "comfortable" gets swallowed. This is called syllable reduction or elision. The word goes from:
- Written: com-for-ta-ble (4 syllables)
- Spoken: KUMF-ter-bul (3 syllables)
This happens because English naturally compresses unstressed syllables to maintain rhythm.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- KUMF /kʌmf/ - Start with "come" + quick "f" sound. The stress is HERE.
- ter /tər/ - A quick, unstressed syllable with schwa
- bul /bəl/ - End with "bull" using a schwa sound
Common Mistakes
Mistake #1: Pronouncing all 4 syllables
❌ com-FOR-tuh-bul
✅ KUMF-ter-bul
Mistake #2: Stressing the wrong syllable
❌ com-FOR-table (stress on second syllable)
✅ KUMF-ter-bul (stress on first syllable)
Mistake #3: Pronouncing the "o" clearly
❌ COHM-for-table
✅ KUMF-ter-bul (the "o" becomes a short "u" sound)
Practice with Related Words
These words follow a similar pattern of syllable reduction:
Other Words with Syllable Reduction
English has many words where syllables are dropped in natural speech:
Quick Practice
Say these sentences, focusing on the 3-syllable pronunciation:
- "I feel comfortable in this room."
- "Make yourself comfortable."
- "Are you comfortable with that decision?"
- "This bed is incredibly comfortable."
Key Takeaways
- Say 3 syllables: KUMF-ter-bul
- Stress the first syllable
- Drop the "or" sound completely
- The "o" becomes a short "u" sound /ʌ/
- Same pattern applies to "comfortably" and "uncomfortable"
Once you get this right, you'll sound much more natural. The 4-syllable pronunciation is a dead giveaway that someone learned English from written text rather than spoken language!