How to pronounce “semáforo”
Hear how “semáforo (traffic light)” sounds in Spanish, then read the breakdown below.
Accent
Breakdown
| Meaning | traffic light |
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| Syllables | se · má · fo · ro (4) |
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| Stress | The written accent marks the stress: MÁ. |
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| IPA | /se.ˈma.fo.ɾo/ |
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Tips for English speakers
Common mistake: Stress the second syllable: seh-MAH-foh-roh.
- The single r is a quick tap, like the "tt" in American English "butter". Don't use an English r.
- Keep every vowel short and pure: a = "ah", e = "eh", i = "ee", o = "oh", u = "oo". No gliding.
Learn more: Spanish R and RR · Stress and accent marks · Spanish vowels
Example sentences
Gira a la izquierda en el semáforo.Turn left at the traffic light.
El semáforo está en rojo.The light is red.
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