Q&A for How to Pronounce Nuclear

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How can one approach pronouncing challenging words like "nuclear," especially if they have speech difficulties?

Stephanie Jeret
Speech-Language Pathologist
Stephanie Jeret is a Speech-Language Pathologist based in Northeastern Illinois. She works with children who stutter, have receptive/expressive language difficulties, and have articulation disorders/delays. She also works with adults who present with dysarthria, apraxia, aphasia, executive function disorder, and stuttering. She is certified by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) and received their ACE Award for excellence in continuing education. She is also PROMPT Bridge Trained, Lidcombe Trained, and Lee Silverman Voice Therapy Certified. Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Queens College and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Brooklyn College.

Stephanie Jeret

Speech-Language Pathologist

Expert Answer

I totally understand how some words like "nuclear" can be tough to pronounce, especially if you have speech difficulties. Breaking it into syllables can help — try saying "nu" and "clear" separately, then combine them. Clapping out the syllables helps, too. If stuttering is a problem, take a deep breath first and go slower when you say it. Reducing pressure on your mouth parts, like where your tongue meets the roof, is good, too. Be patient with yourself, and keep practicing. It's fine to get help from a coach or use pronunciation tools. With time and the right strategies, you'll get there.

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Question

So, I can really say this word either way?

Community Answer

Well, you risk more people thinking you are wrong if you say "nucular," and they might laugh at you. So, if you want to err on the side of caution, say "NEW-clee-er" and no one can argue the point.

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Question

Why are you attempting to justify the obvious mispronunciation of the word nuclear?

Community Answer

Language changes. There is no "right" way, only more common/less common usages. Some usages carry class connotations.

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Question

Is the mispronunciation of the word as nucular a new trend?

Community Answer

No, it was found back in WW2 and was even used by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

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Does it matter if I don't pronounce nuclear correctly?

Community Answer

If you do not pronounce nuclear correctly, nothing much will happen, but people could begin to think you do not use grammar correctly. It is fine, just try not to mispronounce it.

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