The phrase "a puppy" is pronounced as /ə ˈpʌpi/ in English. Here’s the phonetic breakdown:
- "a" is pronounced as /ə/, which is the indefinite article used before a noun that starts with a consonant sound.
- "puppy" is pronounced as /ˈpʌpi/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "p" sound is pronounced clearly, followed by the short "u" sound as in "cup", and ending with the "y" sound, which is a semivowel.
So, when combined, "a puppy" is pronounced as /ə ˈpʌpi/. This phrase refers to a young dog.