counteroffensive
Syllables
coun-ter-of-fen-sive
Pronunciation
/ˌkaʊntərəˈfensɪv/
Stress
00101
Morphemes
counter- + offense + -ive
The word 'counteroffensive' is divided into five syllables: coun-ter-of-fen-sive. It consists of the prefix 'counter-', the root 'offense', and the suffix '-ive'. The primary stress falls on the fourth syllable. Syllable division follows onset-rime structure and the vowel rule.
Definitions
- 1
A renewed attack by a military force after having been repelled or forced to retreat.
“The army launched a powerful counteroffensive.”
- 1
Relating to or being a counterattack.
“A counteroffensive strategy.”
Stress pattern
Primary stress falls on the fourth syllable ('fen'). The first syllable has secondary stress.
Syllables
coun — Closed syllable, onset 'k', rime 'aʊn'. ter — Closed syllable, onset 't', rime 'ər'. of — Open syllable, onset 'f', rime 'o'. fen — Closed syllable, onset 'f', rime 'en'. sive — Closed syllable, onset 's', rime 'ɪv'
Word Parts
Similar Words
Onset-Rime
Syllables are divided based on the onset (initial consonant sound) and rime (vowel and any following consonants).
Vowel Rule
Each syllable generally contains one vowel sound.
- The 'ter' syllable could potentially be combined with 'of', but the vowel cluster 'er' and natural pronunciation support separation.
- Regional variations in vowel pronunciation may occur, but do not affect syllable division.
Nearby Words
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