Phonetic notation represents spoken language sounds using symbols or simplified text. Unlike standard spelling, which can be ambiguous (e.g., ough has multiple pronunciations), phonetic notation shows how words are actually pronounced. This helps language learners, non-native speakers, and anyone encountering unfamiliar words.
The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is the standard for precise phonetic representation, using symbols like /ˈhɛloʊ/ for hello. Simplified phonetic notation uses familiar letters and respelling to approximate pronunciation, such as HEL-oh. This tool provides accessible phonetic guides without requiring IPA knowledge.
Converting text to phonetic notation involves analyzing word spellings and mapping them to pronunciation patterns. For English, this is complex due to irregular spelling. The tool applies pronunciation rules to generate phonetic approximations, helping users understand how to say words correctly.
Browser-based phonetic conversion operates locally without server uploads. Users can convert any text to pronunciation guides privately, useful for learning materials, presentations, or personal study notes.