smallmindedness
The word 'small-mindedness' is divided into four syllables: small-mind-ed-ness. The primary stress falls on the second syllable ('mind'). It's a noun formed from the prefix 'small-', the root 'mind', and the suffixes '-ed' and '-ness'. Syllable division follows the principle of maximizing onsets and dividing after vowels.
Definitions
- 1
The quality of having or showing a narrow or prejudiced outlook; a lack of generosity or understanding.
“His small-mindedness prevented him from seeing the other side of the argument.”
“She couldn't believe the small-mindedness of his comments.”
Stress pattern
Primary stress falls on the second syllable ('mind').
Syllables
small — Open syllable, vowel followed by consonant(s).. mind — Open syllable, vowel followed by consonant(s).. ed — Closed syllable, consonant cluster following a vowel.. ness — Closed syllable, consonant followed by vowel and consonant.
Word Parts
Similar Words
Maximize Onsets
Syllables are divided to create the largest possible consonant clusters at the beginning of syllables (onsets).
Vowel-Consonant Division
Syllables are often divided after a vowel, especially when followed by a consonant.
- The 'sm' consonant cluster in 'small' is a common initial cluster and doesn't require division.
- The pronunciation of the '-ed' suffix can vary, but doesn't affect the syllabification.
Nearby Words
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