What is word stress in English pronunciation?

In English, one syllable in a longer word usually receives more emphasis. For example, the stressed part may be louder, longer, or clearer.

If the stress is in the wrong place, the word may be harder to recognize even if the individual sounds are correct.

English also uses sentence stress. Important words are stronger, while grammar words may be reduced.

This rhythm helps listeners follow the meaning of the sentence.

Mark the stressed syllable in difficult words, listen to a model, and repeat the word inside a full sentence.

Pronunciation improves faster when stress practice is connected to real speaking.