Learning the American Accent: How to Pronounce Nouns and Verbs

In some cases, the same word can be a noun or a verb.  We pronounce it differently depending on which way we are using it.  A rule that applies to some of these words is that the stress falls on the first syllable when it is a noun, such as in the word produce:  The produce is fresh at that store.  The stress falls on the second syllable with the word is used as a verb:  They produce microchips in Silicon Valley.  Because the stress pattern is different, the vowel will also sometimes change.  We use a vowel schwa (sounds like "uh" as in "cup") to mark an unstressed syllable.  Listen to the example below: 

Notice how in the first sentence, produce sounds like pro-dooce, but in the second sentence, it sounds like pruh-dooce.  We call this vowel clarity - the stressed syllable retains its vowel, whereas the unstressed syllable is reduced to a schwa vowel.  In addition, notice how the first syllable in the noun is much longer than in the verb.  We use a longer vowel on a stressed syllable than an unstressed syllable.  Try some of these phrases, making sure to use a long, clear vowel on the stressed syllable. 

Project:  I have to finish the project. (noun)
  I need to project my voice. (verb)
Increase:  We've seen an increase in sales.  (noun)
  I'd like to increase my salary. (verb)
Conflict:  I have a conflict at that time.  (noun)
  Their schedules conflict. (verb)
Details:  I sent the details via email. (noun)
  The book details the events of last year. (verb)

Here are some additional words which follow this noun/verb stress rule:

decrease
import
discount
desert
refund
present

object
subject
contract
protest
insult
permit

escort
upset
conduct
reject
record
contest

consult
convert
console
compound

When in doubt, it's a good idea to check the pronunciation using an online dictionary.

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