10 Everyday Objects Most People Mispronounce

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Kimber Blum

10 Everyday Objects Most People Mispronounce
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We use countless items every day without giving much thought to their names—let alone whether we’re saying them correctly. But surprisingly, many common household and lifestyle items are regularly mispronounced by people around the world. From luxury brands to kitchen essentials, pronunciation mishaps are more common than you’d think. Here are 10 everyday objects you’ve probably said wrong at least once—and how to pronounce them right.

1. Worcestershire Sauce

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This tricky condiment name trips up nearly everyone. It’s not “WOR-ces-ter-shy-er,” but actually pronounced “WUSS-ter-sher” or simply “WUSS-ter.” The confusion comes from the old English spelling, which hides the correct sound behind extra letters. Next time you’re seasoning a steak or making a Bloody Mary, you’ll know how to say it with confidence.

2. Adidas

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Most Americans say “uh-DEE-dus,” but the brand’s original pronunciation is “AH-dee-dahs,” with the emphasis on the first syllable. The name comes from Adolf “Adi” Dassler, the German founder of the sportswear company. In Germany and most of Europe, the name is said differently than in the U.S. So technically, many of us have been mispronouncing it for years.

3. Espresso

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It’s a small but mighty coffee order that often gets called “expresso.” But there’s no “x” in the word. It’s correctly pronounced “ess-PRESS-oh,” and comes from the Italian word for “pressed out.” If you’re ordering a coffee on the go, skip the extra consonant—it’ll make you sound more like a true coffee lover.

4. Bruschetta

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This Italian appetizer is frequently mispronounced as “broo-SHET-uh.” However, the correct way to say it is “broo-SKET-tuh,” because the “ch” in Italian sounds like a hard “k.” It refers to grilled bread topped with tomato, garlic, or other ingredients. Impress your dinner guests by saying it like a native Italian.

5. Quinoa

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Often pronounced “kwin-OH-a” or “kwi-NO-a,” this grain’s name is actually said “KEEN-wah.” It comes from the Andean region and was a staple in Incan diets. Though its spelling throws many off, it’s a common ingredient in modern kitchens. Now you can pronounce it properly when recommending a healthy meal.

6. Salmon

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It may seem obvious, but many still pronounce the “L” in salmon, saying “SAL-mon.” The correct pronunciation is “SAM-un”—the “L” is silent. This mispronunciation is common even among native English speakers. Next time you’re ordering at a restaurant, remember that the “L” is just for show.

7. Sherbet

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Despite what many say, it’s not “sher-bert.” There’s only one “r” in the word, so the correct pronunciation is “SHER-bit.” It’s a frozen dessert similar to sorbet, but with a little dairy mixed in. This one-letter mistake is so common that even some commercials get it wrong.

8. IKEA

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Many English speakers say “eye-KEY-uh,” but the correct pronunciation is “ee-KAY-uh.” That’s how it’s said in Sweden, where the brand was founded. The name is actually an acronym for the founder’s initials and hometown. While no one will correct you in-store, you’ll definitely impress someone by saying it right.

9. Coupon

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You might hear “COO-pon” or “KYOO-pon,” but the original and more accurate pronunciation is “COO-pon.” It comes from the French word coupon, meaning “to cut.” While regional accents play a role in how it’s said, the long “oo” sound is technically correct. Just don’t let the debate keep you from saving money.

10. Gyro

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Ordering this delicious Greek wrap can be intimidating thanks to its confusing name. Many say “JAI-roh” or “GEE-roh,” but the correct pronunciation is “YEE-roh.” It refers to the rotating spit the meat is cooked on. Now you can enjoy your lunch and impress the staff by saying it the authentic way.