threadtheneedle
The phrase 'thread-the-needle' is divided into four syllables: thread-the-nee-dle. Stress falls on 'needle'. Syllable division follows standard English rules based on vowel-consonant patterns. The phrase functions as a phrasal verb with an idiomatic meaning.
Definitions
- 1
To pass something thin and flexible through the eye of a needle; to navigate a difficult situation with skill and precision.
“She managed to thread the needle with her argument.”
“The pilot had to thread the needle through the narrow canyon.”
Stress pattern
Primary stress falls on the first syllable of 'needle' (/ˈnidəl/). 'Thread' and 'the' are unstressed.
Syllables
thread — Open syllable, CVC structure, vowel-final.. the — Open syllable, VC structure, vowel-final, often reduced.. nee — Open syllable, VC structure, vowel-final.. dle — Closed syllable, CVC structure, consonant-final.
VCV Rule
Applied to 'thread' - division between vowels in vowel-consonant-vowel sequences.
VC Rule
Applied to 'the' and 'nee' - division before the consonant following a vowel.
CVC Rule
Applied to 'dle' - division after the vowel in consonant-vowel-consonant sequences.
- Reduction of 'the' to /ðə/ or /ə/. Potential vowel reduction in 'thread'. Idiomatic nature of the phrase influencing pronunciation.
Nearby Words
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