Question

Hello, I always really have a hard time trying to figure out if a syllable is stressed or unstressed. Is there any trick that will tell me if a word is? Or just something that will make it easier to identify? Also, can someone explain to me what metrical feet is and how exactly I can calculate that? Thank you so much to anyone who helps.

Answer 1

hi! i can try to help metrical feet is a group of 2 or 3 syllables forming the basic meaning of poetic rhythm

Answer 2

There are a couple of ways.

1. The dictionary will usually tell you.
http://www.dictionary.com/browse/infinitive
Notice in the section in brackets, the syllables are separated and the stressed syllable is in bold. You can also click on the little speaker icon to hear the word pronounced.

1a. Some words have more syllables, and a good dictionary will usually let you know about primary and secondary stressed syllables.
Here's an extreme example:
http://www.dictionary.com/browse/antidisestablishmentarianism?s=t

2. When you say the word aloud, the stressed syllable is said more loudly than the others. in FIN a tiv

Answer 3

Metrical feet in poetry:

http://study.com/academy/lesson/metrical-feet-characteristics-lesson-quiz.html

http://www.poetryfoundation.org/resources/learning/glossary-terms/detail/foot
Click on links for specific terms, such as names of the different "feet"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foot_(prosody)
VERY well done!