Awkward Speaking Moments

Yesterday I attended a meeting where several college professors and deans were present. I had one of those scary, awkward moments when I was speaking and I came across a word that was new to me--and I wasn't sure how to pronounce it!

The word was "emeriti." I've used other forms of that word (emeritus), but this was a new form I had never pronounced before. What did I do? I avoided the word, just like you do in this situation! Yes--this awkward speaking moment still happens to people long after high school. It happens in college and beyond--well into the working world. Once in awhile we all come across words we've never encountered before at the very worst possible moment--as we're speaking in front of a crowd.

Many students maintain a vocabulary list as they prepare for the SAT and life beyond high school. As you build your vocabulary, don't forget to keep a list of words that are difficult to pronounce. You can save yourself from those awkward speaking moments!