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How to Pronounce “Colonel”

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The word “colonel” is often pronounced incorrectly in the English language since its spelling is vastly different from its verbal pronunciation. The bizarre and oft confusing pronunciation of “colonel” dates back to the word’s origin during the 1500s, when it was used by both the French and Italian militaries.


  1. 1
    Pronounce “colonel” as “ker-nuhl” or “kernel,” as in “a kernel of corn.[1] The English spelling of the word “colonel” was developed as a result of combining the French spelling of “coronel” with the Italian spelling of “colonello.”[2]
  2. 2
    Pronounce “colonel” as “coh-loh-nel” exactly as it’s spelled if saying the word in French.[3] The word “colonel” originated in France before its spelling and meaning was adapted by the English.[4]

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