Can the stress on word fall either first or second syllable?

You're right to be curious! The word "stress" can be pronounced with the stress on either the first or second syllable, depending on its usage.

Here's how it works:

* Stress on the first syllable ("STRESS"): This is the most common pronunciation and refers to the feeling of mental or emotional strain.

* Example: "She's feeling a lot of stress at work."

* Stress on the second syllable ("stress"): This pronunciation is less common and is used as a verb meaning to emphasize or put weight on something.

* Example: "He stressed the importance of being on time."

So, to summarize, it's a matter of context! The pronunciation changes depending on whether you're using it as a noun or a verb.