"Temperature" is a word you hear daily—weather forecasts, cooking, health discussions. But most non-native speakers (and many natives!) add an extra syllable that isn't there.
The Correct Pronunciation
Say it like this: TEM-pruh-chur (3 syllables)
NOT: TEM-per-ah-chur (4 syllables) ❌
The Hidden Syllable Reduction
Looking at the spelling "tem-per-a-ture," you might expect 4 syllables. But in natural speech:
- Written: tem-per-a-ture (4 syllables)
- Spoken: TEM-pruh-chur (3 syllables)
The "per" becomes just "pr" and "ature" becomes "uh-chur."
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- TEM /tem/ - Like "them" without the "th"
- pruh /prə/ - Quick "pr" + schwa
- chur /tʃər/ - Like "church" without the "ch" at the start
Common Mistakes
Mistake #1: Saying 4 syllables
❌ TEM-per-ah-chur
✅ TEM-pruh-chur
Mistake #2: Spanish-style pronunciation
❌ tem-peh-rah-TOO-rah
✅ TEM-pruh-chur
Mistake #3: Over-pronouncing "ture"
❌ TEM-pruh-TOOR
✅ TEM-pruh-chur (the "ture" sounds like "chur")
Similar "-ture" Words
Weather Vocabulary
Practice Sentences
- "What's the temperature today?"
- "The temperature is dropping."
- "Check the patient's temperature."
- "Room temperature is ideal."
The "-ture" Rule
In English, "-ture" is almost always pronounced "chur" /tʃər/:
- nature → NAY-chur
- picture → PIK-chur
- creature → KREE-chur
- temperature → TEM-pruh-chur
Tips for Spanish Speakers
- Forget "temperatura"—the English word is completely different
- Only 3 syllables, not 5
- Stress the first syllable
- "-ture" = "chur," not "tura"
Key Takeaways
- Only 3 syllables: TEM-pruh-chur
- The "per" reduces to just "pr"
- "-ture" sounds like "chur"
- Stress the first syllable
- Same "-ture" pattern: nature, picture, culture
Now you can discuss the temperature like a native speaker!