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How to Pronounce Marae

How to Pronounce "Marae"

Definition: How to say "Marae" and use it in a sentence

Phonetic Spelling:

Ma-rae (pronounced mah-rye)

How to say "Marae" correctly

Understanding the meanings of Marae.

  • A traditional Maori meeting ground or communal area in New Zealand.
  • A sacred place which serves religious and social purposes in Maori culture.
  • A meeting house or complex of buildings and grounds used for social, religious, and cultural activities by Maori people.
  • A communal area where Maori people gather for ceremonies, meetings, and other important events.
  • A central place for the Maori community to come together for various cultural activities and rituals.

Use Marae correctly with these examples:

  • The marae is the heart of the Maori community.
  • The elders gathered at the marae to discuss important matters.
  • Visitors are welcomed onto the marae with a traditional powhiri.
  • The marae is a place where Maori culture and traditions are preserved and celebrated.
  • The hui at the marae brought together people from different iwi.

Nearby words to Marae:

Maori, Mare, Mara, Marauder, Marauding, Marble, Marathon, Maracas, Marbleize, Maritime,

Synonyms for Marae

Meeting ground, Gathering place, Community center, Cultural hub, Sacred site, Assembly area, Traditional meeting place, Tribal grounds, Social center, Ceremonial space,

Review Marae
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Steps to pronounce English words better

Here are some things to remember that should help you perfect your pronunciation of ‘Marae‘:

  • Try to Break down ‘Marae’ into sounds, speak it out loud whilst exaggerating the sounds until you can consistently say it without making a mistake.
  • Record ‘Marae‘ in full sentences and then watch or listen back. You should be able to find any of your flaws quite easily.
  • Search for videos on Youtube or Google on how to pronounce ‘Marae‘ correctly.
  • Focus on a single accent: mixing multiple accents can confuse people, especially for beginners. So select one accent (US or UK), perhaps American and stick to it.


A few more ideas to boost your English accent and pronunciation, it’s advised to embrace the following techniques:

Practicing speech contraction in speech is common in the U.S. and is seen as a natural part of informal dialogue. For example, changing “what are you going to do this weekend” to “what you gonna do this weekend” is standard practice. Explore terms like ‘gonna’ and ‘wanna’ for additional insights.

Working on your intonation is essential for English fluency. The patterns of stress, rhythm, and pitch in English are key in conveying your intended message and emotions. Many resources and videos on Youtube can aid you in mastering these elements to pronounce ‘Marae’.

Engage with multiple Youtube channels dedicated to English learning. These platforms offer free resources that tackle essential language skills. Pronounce.tv is one more superb source for honing your pronunciation.

Copying native speakers can markedly improve your pronunciation. Listen to how they pronounce ‘Marae’ and attempt to replicate the tone, speed, and rhythm in your speech, making it second nature.

Incorporate phonetic exercises into your routine. Learning and practicing the phonetic sounds of English can help you better pronounce words that are difficult or unfamiliar.

Regularly use English in your daily conversations. The more you speak, the more adept you’ll become with the nuances of pronunciation and accent, improving your overall expressive capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there cultural implications associated with mispronouncing ‘marae’?

Yes, there are cultural implications associated with mispronouncing ‘marae’. In Maori culture, the marae is a sacred meeting place where important ceremonies, gatherings, and events take place. It holds significant cultural, spiritual, and historical importance to the Maori people. Therefore, mispronouncing ‘marae’ can be seen as a sign of disrespect or lack of understanding of Maori culture. Pronouncing words correctly is a way to show respect for the culture and traditions of others. It is important to make an effort to learn and pronounce words correctly, especially when they hold such cultural significance. By taking the time to learn and pronounce ‘marae’ correctly, you are showing respect for the Maori culture and honoring their traditions.

How can non-Māori speakers best practice the pronunciation of ‘marae’?

Non-Māori speakers can best practice the pronunciation of ‘marae’ by breaking down the word into its individual sounds. The word ‘marae’ is pronounced as “mah-rye.” The first syllable is pronounced as in the word “ma” or “mah,” with a short ‘a’ sound. The second syllable is pronounced as in the word “rye,” with a long ‘i’ sound. It is important to emphasize the correct stress on the first syllable, ‘MA-rye,’ with a slight pause between the two syllables. To further improve pronunciation, one can listen to recordings of native Māori speakers saying the word and practice repeating it until the correct pronunciation is achieved. Additionally, familiarizing oneself with the Māori language and its unique sounds can also help in mastering the pronunciation of ‘marae.’

What is the plural of marae?

The plural of “marae” can be either “marae” or “maraes.” The term “marae” refers to a Polynesian temple enclosure that is used for worship, sacrifice, or other religious ceremonies. The word itself is of Maori origin and is commonly used in the context of Polynesian culture. When referring to multiple marae structures, both “marae” and “maraes” are acceptable plural forms to use.

What is the correct phonetic pronunciation of ‘marae’?

The correct phonetic pronunciation of ‘marae’ is /ˈmɑːraɪ/. In this pronunciation guide, the first syllable is pronounced like the word “ma,” the second syllable is pronounced like the word “rye.” The stress is on the first syllable, so it is pronounced with a slightly longer emphasis. ‘Marae’ is a Maori word used to describe a communal or sacred place that serves religious and social purposes in Maori culture.

Is the pronunciation of ‘marae’ the same for all Māori tribes?

The pronunciation of ‘marae’ can vary slightly among different Māori tribes due to regional dialectical differences. However, the general pronunciation of ‘marae’ is fairly consistent across most Māori tribes. It is pronounced as “mah-rye” with the stress on the first syllable. The differences in pronunciation may be subtle, such as the emphasis on certain vowels or consonants, but overall, the word is recognizable and understood by Māori speakers from different tribes. The importance of the marae as a central gathering place in Māori culture ensures that the word is widely used and understood, regardless of minor variations in pronunciation.

Are there different regional variations in pronouncing the word ‘marae’ in New Zealand?

Yes, there are indeed regional variations in pronouncing the word ‘marae’ in New Zealand. The pronunciation of ‘marae’ can differ depending on the region or iwi (tribe) within New Zealand. The word ‘marae’ is a Maori term used to describe a communal or sacred meeting place in Maori culture. In some regions, such as in the North Island, the pronunciation may sound more like “mah-rye” with a slight emphasis on the second syllable. In other regions, such as in the South Island, the pronunciation may sound more like “mah-ry” without the final vowel sound. These variations in pronunciation can be influenced by factors such as local dialects, historical influences, and individual speech patterns. Overall, the pronunciation of ‘marae’ can vary across New Zealand, reflecting the diverse linguistic landscape of the country.

What is a marae in English?

In English, a marae is a communal or sacred place that holds significant religious and social importance in Polynesian societies. The term “marae” is used in New Zealand Māori, Cook Islands Māori, and Tahitian cultures, while it is known as “malaʻe” in Tongan, “meʻae” in Marquesan, and “malae” in Samoan. The marae is a central gathering place where ceremonies, meetings, and important events are held. It often consists of a central courtyard surrounded by various buildings, including a meeting house and other structures that serve specific functions. The marae plays a crucial role in preserving cultural traditions, fostering community connections, and maintaining spiritual practices within Polynesian communities.

How do New Zealanders pronounce Māori?

New Zealanders pronounce Māori as “MAH-oh-ree.” The first syllable is emphasized and pronounced as “MAH,” with a long “a” sound. The second syllable is pronounced as “oh,” and the final syllable is pronounced as “ree.” The pronunciation of Māori is important as it is the indigenous language of New Zealand and is widely spoken throughout the country. Proper pronunciation shows respect for the language and culture of the Māori people.

Why is it important to respect the pronunciation of ‘marae’?

Respecting the pronunciation of ‘marae’ is important for several reasons. First and foremost, pronouncing words correctly shows respect for the language and culture from which they originate. ‘Marae’ is a Maori word used in New Zealand to refer to a communal or sacred place that serves as a meeting ground for the Maori community. By pronouncing ‘marae’ correctly, you are acknowledging and honoring the significance and history of this word in Maori culture. Additionally, correct pronunciation helps to ensure effective communication and understanding between people. Using the correct pronunciation of ‘marae’ demonstrates cultural sensitivity and awareness, which are essential in fostering positive and respectful interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Overall, respecting the pronunciation of ‘marae’ is a simple yet meaningful way to show appreciation for the language and culture it represents.

Do Māori language experts offer guidance on pronouncing ‘marae’?

Yes, Māori language experts do offer guidance on pronouncing the word ‘marae’. The correct pronunciation of ‘marae’ is often emphasized in language learning resources and by experts in the Māori language. In Māori language classes and cultural workshops, instructors typically provide guidance on the correct pronunciation of words like ‘marae’ to ensure that learners are using the language accurately and respectfully. Additionally, online resources, such as pronunciation guides and audio recordings, can also be helpful in learning the correct pronunciation of Māori words like ‘marae’. Overall, Māori language experts play a crucial role in preserving and promoting the correct pronunciation of Māori words, including ‘marae’.

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