selfdetermination
Syllables
self-de-ter-mi-na-tion
Pronunciation
/ˌselfdɪˌtɜːrmɪˈneɪʃən/
Stress
010010
Morphemes
self + determine + ation
The word 'self-determination' is a five-syllable noun with primary stress on the fifth syllable ('na'). It is composed of the prefix 'self-', the root 'determine', and the suffix '-ation'. Syllabification follows standard English vowel and affix rules, resulting in the division: self-de-ter-mi-na-tion.
Definitions
- 1
The process of deciding one's own fate or course of action without compulsion; the right of a people to freely choose their own form of government.
“The country fought for self-determination.”
“The principle of self-determination is enshrined in international law.”
Stress pattern
Primary stress falls on the fifth syllable ('na'). Secondary stress falls on the first ('self') and third ('ter') syllables. The remaining syllables are unstressed.
Syllables
self — Open syllable, initial syllable, lightly stressed.. de — Open syllable, unstressed.. ter — Open syllable, secondary stress.. mi — Open syllable, unstressed.. na — Open syllable, primary stress.. tion — Closed syllable, unstressed.
Word Parts
Similar Words
Vowel Rule
Syllables are generally built around vowel sounds. Each vowel sound typically forms a syllable.
Affix Rule
Prefixes and suffixes generally form separate syllables.
Consonant Cluster Rule
Consonant clusters are split based on sonority and ease of articulation.
- The initial 'self-' could potentially be considered a single syllable, but dividing it as 'self-' more accurately reflects pronunciation and stress.
- Regional variations in vowel pronunciation may exist, but do not significantly alter the syllabification.
Nearby Words
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