Sometimes, we tend to overlook the importance of grammar and punctuation marks in writing. A small misplacement can alter the meaning and context of a sentence. But does this also apply to speaking? The answer is yes! The way we pronounce words and sentences, as well as the pauses we take while speaking, can significantly impact the meaning and delivery of our intended message.

This is known as “word stress.” Let’s delve into the details of what it entails.

What is word stress?

Word stress refers to the emphasis placed on a particular word or certain words within a phrase or sentence.

For example:

“Do you like pizza?”

If no stress is placed on any of the words, it becomes a plain sentence. This plain sentence fails to highlight any specific point. For instance, if you are someone who absolutely loves pizza, simply saying “I love pizza” might not convey the extent of your fondness. However, by emphasizing the word “love” and saying “I lovvvvve pizza,” you can better express your passion for it.

Observe how the meaning of the sentence changes with each word stress:

I love pizza. (the focus is on the subject “I”)

I love pizza. (the focus is on the emotion “love”)

I love pizza. (the focus is on the object “pizza”)

This is referred to as enunciation. It involves ensuring that words are spoken clearly, concisely, and with ease of understanding.

Let’s consider another example. Imagine someone asks you about the weather, and it is scorching hot in your city.

Once again, let’s examine how the meaning of the sentence changes with different word stress:

It is really hot here. (the emphasis is on the adverb “really”)

It is really hot here. (the emphasis is on the adjective “hot”)

It is really hot here. (the emphasis is on the noun “here”)

How does word stress affect your IELTS band score?

The way you enunciate your sentences and emphasize certain words can have a significant impact on your fluency and clarity of speech. By amplifying your feelings and stressing specific words during the speaking task, you can effectively communicate your message. However, it is crucial to know which words to stress.

Let’s explore a few examples in the form of question and answer, where the question is likely to be posed by the examiner and the answer depends on your opinions and preferences.

Sample question: Are you satisfied with your work?

Your response will vary depending on whether you agree or disagree with the statement. If you enjoy your work, you can convey this by saying “I lovvve my work” or “I realllyy like my work a lot.”

Sample question: What’s the most interesting part of your town/village?

Your answer may involve describing a significant structure or activity in your village. For example, you could say, “We have this hugggee temple in our village, which is said to be one of the most ancient structures in our country” or “The people in my village nevvver close, latch, or lock their doors, even during the night time.”

Can you perceive the difference? Now that you understand the importance of word stress, let’s also explore how you can develop and improve this skill.

How to improve enunciation or word stress:

1. Read slowly and clearly:

Choose articles from newspapers, books, or magazines and read them aloud at a slow pace. Focus on pronouncing and enunciating each word and sentence. Identify the most crucial element in each statement and emphasize that particular word while reading.

2. Pay attention to punctuation:

If you’re uncertain about where to pause or take breaks for punctuation while speaking, listen to English news, watch English movies, or follow English shows. This will help you learn how to use punctuation correctly in your speech.

3. Record yourself:

Record your speaking and listen to the recordings. This will allow you to analyze your speaking skills, identify mistakes, and determine areas that require improvement.

4. Express yourself:

Do you enjoy watching actors who maintain the same expression throughout an entire movie? We often criticize such actors. The same principle applies to our speaking. Speaking without gestures and emotions can make us sound robotic. Incorporating appropriate gestures and expressions can enhance your speaking skills and significantly impact your band score.

A surefire way to improve your word stress is to listen carefully to the questions. Focus on what the examiner is actually asking. Additionally, practice speaking sentences by emphasizing each word based on its importance. By the time you face the examiner, you will have trained yourself well in word stress.