2 syllables: da, tum. Stress on da.
/ˈdeɪtəm/
Say it backA datum is a single piece of information or a piece of measured data, typically used as a data point in a dataset. In broader use, it refers to a fact serving as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or decision-making. The term is often pluralized as data, though some modern usage treats datum as singular in technical contexts.
- You: Overemphasize the second syllable, saying da-TUM or /ˈdeɪtəm/; Fix: keep DAT stressed and use a reduced final /ə/ or /əm/. - You: Run the vowels together; fix by isolating each syllable: DAT - um with a light, quick transition. - You: Mispronounce the /t/ as a flap or /d/ cluster; fix: crisp alveolar /t/ between DAT and /əm/; avoid adding extra consonants.
"The data set contains a datum that indicates a spike in temperature."
"Researchers recorded each datum to analyze trends over time."
"This datum is essential for calibrating the instrument."
Pronounce it as /ˈdæt.əm/ in US and UK; the first syllable carries primary stress. Start with a short, flat /æ/ as in 'cat', then a relaxed /t/ followed by a schwa or a reduced /ə/ in the second syllable. Hear it as 'DAT-uhm' with a quick, light ending. For audio examples, compare Cambridge/Oxford pronunciations or Forvo entries of 'datum'.
Common errors include misplacing stress on the second syllable (da-TUM) and pronouncing the second syllable as a full vowel like 'doom' (/duːm/) instead of a reduced /ə/ or /əm/. Another error is merging the two syllables too tightly (/ˈdætm/) or saying /ˈdædːəm/ with a doubled t. Correction: emphasize the first syllable DAT, keep a light /t/ then a relaxed /ə/ or /əm/ in the second syllable, ensuring the vowel reduces rather than lengthens.
In US/UK, the main stress is on the first syllable: /ˈdæt.əm/. Australian English generally mirrors this pattern but may have a slightly more centralized /ə/ and softer /t/ in rapid speech. The rhoticity does not affect this word as there is no rhotic vowel; vowel quality is largely the same but with minor regional vowel length differences. Listen to native recordings to sense subtle timing and vowel reduction differences.
The challenge lies in the short, tense first vowel /æ/ followed by a light /t/ and a reduced ending /ə/ or /əm/. Learners often over-articulate the second syllable or mispronounce the /ə/ as a full vowel like /o/ or /u/, giving /ˈdætɒm/ or /ˈdætjuːm/. Focus on keeping the second syllable unstressed and reduced; practice the transition from a crisp /t/ to a soft, muted /ə/.
No, datum pronounces all letters. The 't' is clearly articulated as a voice-aligned alveolar stop, and the second syllable uses a reduced vowel rather than silent letters. The potential confusion is more about vowel reduction and syllable stress than silent letters.
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- US: rhotic? Not relevant here; focus on a crisp /t/ and a quick /ə/ reduction. - UK: Slightly stronger vowel reduction and faster tempo; keep /æ/ stable but shorter, avoid vowel lengthening before /m/. - AU: Similar to US/UK but with a more centralized /ə/; keep the /t/ clear and avoid glottalization. - IPA references: US /ˈdæt.əm/, UK /ˈdæt.əm/, AU /ˈdæt.əm/.
Datum originates from Latin, where datum is the neuter past participle of dare, meaning
💡 Etymology tip: Understanding word origins can help you remember pronunciation patterns and recognize related words in the same language family.
Help others use "datum" correctly by contributing grammar tips, common mistakes, and context guidance.
💡 These words have similar meanings to "datum" and can often be used interchangeably.
🔄 These words have opposite meanings to "datum" and show contrast in usage.
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Words that rhyme with "datum"
-tum sounds
Practice with these rhyming pairs to improve your pronunciation consistency:
🎵 Rhyme tip: Practicing with rhyming words helps you master similar sound patterns and improves your overall pronunciation accuracy.
