WHEN can an innocent looking cake spark a fight? When it’s a scone.
Surely one of the most controversial words in the English language, the issue of how to correctly pronounce it is fiercely contested.
According to Oxford Dictionaries, it has been enough to “end friendships, destroy marriages, and tear families asunder”.
The site does admit this is perhaps an exaggeration but it illustrates the point about how divisive this simple little five-letter word can be.
Do you think it should be said with a cone or con sound? Should it rhyme with Joan or John?
Do you think any less of someone who in your opinion mispronounces it or do you think either version is acceptable?
Add your comments below.
Our Burning Questions feature aims to settle some of life’s perennial arguments and answer some of its little mysteries with readers’ collective knowledge.
We’d love your suggestions for arguments and questions you’d like us to cover. What are the things that make you go hmmm? Add your comments below or email us
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel