How is this pronounced? (subitize)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the pronunciation of the word "subitize." Participants share their experiences and opinions on how the word is pronounced, referencing different pronunciations they have encountered and the potential influence of regional accents.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants mention that the pronunciation may vary by region, with suggestions that Americans and Brits might pronounce it differently.
  • One participant proposes "suhbitize" based on the pronunciation of similar words like "subterfuge" and "subsidize," while another agrees with this pronunciation.
  • Others argue for "soobitize," citing the etymology of the word and its Latin roots, suggesting that the 'u' is long when followed by a vowel.
  • A participant notes that the pronunciation could depend on whether "sub" is functioning as a prefix or not, indicating that in "subitize," it may not be a prefix.
  • Some express uncertainty about the correct pronunciation, with one participant humorously reflecting on the likelihood of choosing a pronunciation opposite to that of their professor.
  • There are references to the word's niche status, with some dictionaries not including it, leading to speculation about the lecturer's pronunciation being a guess.
  • Several participants share personal anecdotes related to their understanding or use of the term "subitize," including a mention of a child’s ability to subitize large numbers quickly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct pronunciation of "subitize," with multiple competing views remaining throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight that the pronunciation may depend on etymological considerations, noting the Latin origin of the word. Additionally, there are discussions about the limitations of dictionary entries regarding this term.

  • #31
Phi Phi Pho Phum
 
Science news on Phys.org
  • #32
Fie fee, potato potahto
 
  • #33
Let's call the whole thing off.
 
  • #34
TA ---tummmmmm (Minor chord)
 
  • #35
BobG said:
82. To count 246 toothpicks, he had to look at them in three groups. That was a movie. I don't think that could happen in real life.
Oh thanks. Huh. Funny thing, the memory. I couldn't remember the exact number, but I would have sworn that:
a] there were three toothpicks in the box
b] the 3 groups were 3 of a prime number (which 82 is not)

I think the feats in the movie are based on real feats.
 

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