Here's what they mean:
* Pronunciation: Accents guide how we pronounce a word. The accented syllable is said with more force and volume, making it stand out from the other syllables.
* Rhythm: Accents create a rhythm within a word and help us understand the flow of speech.
* Meaning: Sometimes, changing the accent on a word changes its meaning, especially in words like "present" (gift) and "present" (to be in a place).
Example:
The word "con-trast" has the accent on the first syllable. When you say it, you put more emphasis on the "con" part. This makes the word sound different from "con-trast" (which has the accent on the second syllable).
Here are some things to remember about accented syllables:
* Dictionary markings: Dictionaries usually use symbols like an apostrophe (') or a stress mark (`) above the accented syllable.
* Practice: The best way to learn the accents in words is to listen to native speakers and practice saying them correctly.
Let me know if you have any other questions about accents!