crossexamination
Syllables
cross-ex-am-i-na-tion
Pronunciation
/ˌkrɔs ɪɡˌzæmɪˈneɪʃən/
Stress
010110
Morphemes
cross- + examine + -ation
“Cross-examination” is a five-syllable noun with primary stress on the fourth syllable. It’s formed from the prefix “cross-”, the root “examine”, and the suffix “-ation”. Syllabification follows vowel-consonant patterns and respects morphemic boundaries.
Definitions
- 1
The questioning of a witness called by the opposing side in a court of law.
“The lawyer conducted a thorough cross-examination of the defendant.”
Stress pattern
Primary stress falls on the fourth syllable ('na'). Secondary stress on the first syllable ('cross').
Syllables
cross — Open syllable, vowel followed by consonant cluster.. ex — Closed syllable, consonant cluster followed by a vowel.. am — Closed syllable, vowel followed by consonant.. i — Open syllable, single vowel.. na — Open syllable, consonant followed by vowel.. tion — Closed syllable, consonant cluster followed by vowel.
Word Parts
Similar Words
Vowel Rule
A vowel sound generally forms a syllable.
Consonant Cluster Rule
Consonant clusters are typically broken up to create syllables.
Stress-Timing Rule
English is a stress-timed language, influencing syllable prominence.
- The 'ex' and 'am' combination requires careful consideration.
- The 'i' syllable can be elided in rapid speech.
- Regional variations in pronunciation may slightly alter syllable boundaries.
Nearby Words
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