pronounce

To say a word or sound in a particular way.

• How do you pronounce this name?
• She pronounced every word clearly.
• I cannot pronounce that sound yet.

How to use it: pronounce something as something (We pronounce this letter as a long vowel.)

Similar words: say, articulate

Common phrases: pronounce a word, pronounce a name, pronounce something correctly

To announce something in an official or ceremonial way.

• The judge pronounced the sentence.
• The official pronounced them married.
• They waited for the court to pronounce its verdict.

How to use it: pronounce someone/something + adjective (The judge pronounced him guilty.)

Similar words: declare, announce

Common phrases: pronounce a sentence, pronounce someone married, pronounce a verdict

To give a firm judgment about someone or something, often using expert knowledge.

• The doctor pronounced him dead.
• Experts pronounced the building safe.
• She declined to pronounce on the quality of the painting.

How to use it: pronounce someone/something + adjective (The doctor pronounced her fit to travel.); pronounce on something (The expert will pronounce on its authenticity.)

Similar words: declare, judge

Common phrases: pronounce someone dead, pronounce something safe, pronounce on something