catchascatchcan
The phrase 'catch-as-catch-can' is divided into four syllables: catch-as-catch-can. It's a compound phrase with stress on the first syllable of each 'catch' and on 'can'. Syllabification follows onset maximization and vowel-consonant division rules.
Definitions
- 1
In a haphazard or improvisational way; without any fixed rules or principles.
“He fought catch-as-catch-can.”
“The negotiations proceeded catch-as-catch-can.”
Stress pattern
Primary stress falls on the first syllable of each 'catch' and on 'can'. The 'as' is unstressed.
Syllables
catch — Closed syllable, stressed.. as — Open syllable, unstressed.. catch — Closed syllable, stressed.. can — Open syllable, stressed.
Word Parts
Similar Words
Onset Maximization
Attempting to include as many consonants as possible in the onset of each syllable.
Vowel-Consonant Division
Dividing syllables after vowels, especially when followed by consonants.
- The phrase is an idiom with a relatively fixed pronunciation.
- The compound nature of the phrase means each component retains its individual stress.
Nearby Words
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