How to pronounce suggestion

Suggestion is a tough word to pronounce. You need to use two schwa vowel sounds, two different G sounds and an unexpected T sound in order to say it correctly.

Let’s break it down~

1. The first syllable is reduced. Use a schwa vowel soun. The G has a “hard G” sound.

2. The second syllable is stressed.  The G has a “soft G” sound.

3. The third syllable is reduced. Use a schwa vowel sound.  The T has a /ch/ sound.

Here’s how I spell suggestion for my coaching clients.

• səg JES chən

Here’s how the word looks in the Merriam Webster dictionary. The blue letters show the phonetic pronunciation.

 

 

Try the correct pronunciation in these sentences/questions.

1. Can I make a suggestion?
2. Who has a suggestion?
3. I’m open to suggestions.

Listen here

About the author

Susan Ryan is an American English communication and accent reduction coach.

Contact her with your questions about clear American speech.