How to pronounce subpoena
If you have ever encountered the word “subpoena” in written form, you may have wondered about its pronunciation. Whether you are a native English speaker or someone learning English as a second language, it is essential to know how to correctly say this legal term.
The word “subpoena” is derived from Latin and has become a commonly used term in the English legal system. It refers to a court-issued summon that requires an individual to appear in court or produce specific documents. Despite its frequency of use, the pronunciation of “subpoena” can often be a point of confusion.
When it comes to the pronunciation of “subpoena,” many people mistakenly place the emphasis on the second syllable: “sub-POE-nuh.” However, the correct pronunciation places the emphasis on the first syllable, making it “suh-PEE-nuh.” This difference in stress placement can significantly impact the meaning and comprehension of the word, so it is essential to pronounce it accurately.
What Does Subpoena Stand For and How is it Pronounced?
A subpoena is a legal document that compels a person to testify in court or produce documents as evidence in a legal proceeding. It is typically issued by a court or by an attorney on behalf of a court.
Origin of the Word
The word “subpoena” is derived from Latin, meaning “under penalty”. This accurately reflects the consequence of failing to comply with a subpoena, as the recipient can be held in contempt of court.
Pronunciation
The word “subpoena” is pronounced suh-pee-nuh. The stress is on the second syllable, and the vowel sounds like “ee”. It is important to note that the “e” in “subpoena” is actually silent, so it is not pronunced as sub-pi-nuh.
Some people may mistakenly pronounce “subpoena” with the stress on the first syllable, as in “suh-poh-nuh”, but the correct pronunciation is suh-pee-nuh.
Example: A lawyer served a subpoena to a witness, requiring them to appear in court and provide testimony.
To summarize, a subpoena is a legal document that compels a person to testify in court or produce evidence, and it is pronounced suh-pee-nuh.
Discover the Meaning and Correct Way to Say “Subpoena”
A subpoena is a legal order that requires a person or an organization to produce evidence or testify in court. It is usually issued by a court or a government agency, and failing to comply with a subpoena can result in contempt of court charges.
The word “subpoena” originates from the Latin term “sub poena,” which translates to “under penalty.” This reflects the serious consequences that can arise from non-compliance with a subpoena.
Meaning and Usage
In a legal context, a subpoena is used to gather important information or testimonies to be presented in a court case. It is typically issued by attorneys during the discovery phase of litigation or by grand juries during investigations.
Subpoenas can be issued to individuals or organizations, and they can request a wide range of items, including documents, records, objects, or even appearances in court for testimonies.
Pronunciation
When it comes to pronouncing “subpoena,” it is essential to note that there is some variation among individuals and regions. However, the most widely accepted pronunciation is suh-PEE-nuh.
The stress is usually placed on the “PEE” syllable. The “u” is pronounced like the short ‘u’ in “sun,” and the final syllable, “nuh,” ends with a schwa sound.
Here’s a breakdown of the syllable stress: suh-PEE-nuh.
Remember, accuracy in pronouncing legally significant terms such as “subpoena” is crucial to maintain a clear and professional image in any legal setting.
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