Here's a breakdown of what that means:
1. Syllables:
A syllable is a single unit of pronunciation that consists of a vowel sound (sometimes with surrounding consonants). For example, the word "banana" has three syllables: "ba-na-na".
2. Emphasis:
In speech, we naturally put more emphasis on certain syllables within a word. This emphasis, or stress, can be indicated in writing by placing a small mark (') before the stressed syllable.
3. Importance of Stress:
Stress syllables are important for a few reasons:
* Clarity: They help to distinguish between words that sound similar but have different meanings (e.g., "record" vs "record").
* Rhythm: They create the rhythm of language and make it more pleasing to the ear.
* Understanding: They help us to understand the meaning of a word, as they often highlight the most important part of the word.
Example:
The word "alphabet" has the stress on the first syllable. We pronounce it with a stronger emphasis on "al" than on "pha" or "bet".
To identify stressed syllables:
* Listen carefully: Pay attention to how native speakers pronounce words.
* Use a dictionary: Most dictionaries indicate stressed syllables using a small mark (') before the stressed syllable.
* Practice: The more you practice, the easier it will become to identify stressed syllables.
Understanding stress syllables is important for pronunciation, fluency, and clear communication.