Cracking the Code: How NOT to Sound Like a Lost Tourist in Wilkes-Barre
Ah, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. A city steeped in history, known for its friendly people and, well, let's be honest, a name that trips up even the most seasoned tongue-twister. Fear not, intrepid traveler, for this guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the linguistic minefield that is Wilkes-Barre's pronunciation.
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| How To Pronounce Wilkes Barre Pennsylvania |
Forget Everything You Think You Know (But Seriously, Here's What's Up)
We've all been there. You see it written down, "Wilkes-Barre," and your brain goes into overdrive. "Wilkes-bury?" "Wilkes-berry?" Wrong and wronger. There's a reason it's hyphenated, folks! This Pennsylvanian gem is named after two dudes: John Wilkes and Isaac Barr�.
Here's the golden rule: Wilkes rhymes with "likes," and Barre is pronounced like "bar." Simple, right? NOT REALLY.
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
The Plot Thickens: Enter the Great Wilkes-Barre Pronunciation Debate
Now, here's the kicker. There's a playful debate amongst Wilkes-Barre locals about just how to say "Barre." Some folks favor a hard "r" sound, like a pirate saying "arrr." Others lean towards a softer "uh" sound, like you're contemplating a particularly philosophical barrel.
The truth? Both are acceptable! Just pick your team and own it. (Although, if you want to sound like a true insider, the hard "r" might be your best bet.)
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Bonus points if you can throw in a hearty "yinz guys" at the end of your sentence. (Yes, that's "you guys" in the local Pittsburgh dialect that somehow bleeds over into Wilkes-Barre.)
You've Got This! (And a Few FAQs to Seal the Deal)
So, there you have it! You're now equipped to confidently pronounce Wilkes-Barre like a local (or at least close enough). Here are some quick FAQs to address any lingering anxieties:
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
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How to sound super official? Wil-kes bair (hard "r").
How to sound friendly and approachable? Wil-kes bar (softer "r").
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
How to sound like a local Pittsburgher who got lost? Wil-kes bar, yinz guys!
How to avoid confusion altogether? Just call it "The Valley." Everyone knows what you mean.
How to impress everyone with your knowledge of obscure trivia? Wilkes-Barre is the only hyphenated city name in the entire United States! Boom!
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