How to pronounce rural

Picture yourself in a small town, nestled amidst rolling hills and charming farmlands, where the word “rural” comes up frequently in conversations about agriculture, community, or lifestyle. Perhaps you’re engaged in a debate about city versus country living, and someone uses the term “rural,” prompting you to wonder if you’re pronouncing it correctly. This is a common moment when people realize that certain words can sound different in various regions or among different speakers. If you find yourself stumbling over this term, you’re not alone–many grapple with its pronunciation.

The word “rural” is pronounced as /ˈrʊr.əl/ or “ROOR-uhl.”

To break it down, the pronunciation of “rural” consists of two syllables. The first syllable is pronounced with a short “u” sound, similar to “roo,” which rhymes with “too.” The second syllable is a quick and soft “uhl,” making the word flow smoothly. Some speakers may struggle with the transition between the syllables, causing the word to sound a bit choppy. It’s helpful to practice saying “rural” slowly at first: “roo-ral,” and then gradually speed up until it feels natural. Remember that regional accents may affect pronunciation slightly, but the key is to maintain clarity with that initial “roo” sound.