10 Viral Mispronounced Words of 2024 With Correct Pronunciations
The year 2024 brought its share of viral moments and new words, leaving many people scratching their heads over how to pronounce them. From entertainment to science, these mispronounced words sparked debates and highlighted the importance of clear communication. Here are the most notable examples, with their correct pronunciations.
1. Barry Keoghan (BARR-ee key-OH-gin)
Barry Keoghan, an award-winning Irish actor, made waves in 2024 for his roles and high-profile relationship with Sabrina Carpenter. Despite his fame, his last name has often been mispronounced. Featuring a hard “g,” it contrasts with other Irish surnames where the “g” is silent. His growing popularity brought more attention to this common pronunciation error.
@BarryKeoghan | X | Barry Keoghan’s last name has often been mispronounced.
2. Espresso (es-PRESS-oh)
Coffee enthusiasts have long cringed at the widespread mispronunciation of “espresso” as “expresso.” Sabrina Carpenter’s hit song Espresso only amplified the debate, as fans debated how to say the name correctly. Babbel reminds everyone it’s “es-PRESS-oh,” emphasizing the absence of an “x.”
3. Phryge (FREE-je)
The mascot for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Phryge, drew attention for its unique design and equally puzzling name. Derived from the Phrygian cap, a symbol of liberty, its pronunciation sparked confusion worldwide. Organizers clarified the correct way to say it, aligning with its French roots.
4. Shein (SHE-in)
Fast-fashion giant Shein continued its dominance in 2024, but shoppers frequently mispronounced its name as “Sheen.” Despite controversies surrounding its business practices, the brand has gained international recognition. Its correct pronunciation, “SHE-in,” remains a point of clarification for many.
5. Speculoos-3b (SPEK-yuh-lohss three bee)
Astronomers discovered Speculoos-3b, an Earth-sized exoplanet orbiting a red dwarf, in 2024. Named after a telescope network, this name has been frequently confused with the popular Belgian biscuit. Scientists clarified that it’s “SPEK-yuh-lohss three bee,” emphasizing the proper astronomical naming conventions.
6. Josko Gvardiol (YOSH-ko GVAR-dee-ol)
Croatian footballer Josko Gvardiol became a household name thanks to his impressive performance with Manchester City. While his skills on the field earned praise, his name left fans and commentators perplexed. Pronounced “YOSH-ko GVAR-dee-ol,” it showcases the nuances of Slavic languages.
@josko_gvardiol | Instagram | Josko Gvardiol became a household name thanks to his impressive performance with Manchester City.
7. Ncuti Gatwa (n-SHOO-ti GAT-wah)
Actor Ncuti Gatwa, known for Doctor Who and Sex Education, surprised even himself when he learned the correct pronunciation of his name. It begins with an “n” sound followed by a pause, then “shoo-ti.” Gatwa’s journey in reclaiming his name added depth to his public image.
8. Snus (SNOOZ)
Snus, a Swedish smokeless tobacco product, became a topic of discussion as its popularity grew globally. Often mispronounced as it’s spelled, the correct pronunciation is “SNOOZ.” Babbel notes the soft, elongated “o” and subtle “z” sound that define the word.
9. Flygskam (FLEEG-skam)
The Swedish term “flygskam,” meaning “flight shame,” gained momentum as a movement against air travel’s environmental impact. Popularized by activist Greta Thunberg, its correct pronunciation is “FLEEG-skam.” The term symbolizes a cultural shift toward more sustainable travel habits.
10. Cryptosporidium (krip-toe-spuh-RID-ee-um)
The word “cryptosporidium” made headlines during a waterborne disease outbreak in Devon, England. News anchors stumbled over its pronunciation as they covered the story. The correct way to say it is “krip-toe-spuh-RID-ee-um.” This microscopic parasite caused significant disruption, further emphasizing the need for accurate pronunciation in news reporting.