How Do You Say It? State Publishes Michigan Pronunciations
It’s meant to be a helpful guide, but some may disagree with entries.
Do you say “de-TROIT” or “DEE-troit”? “SHAR-lut” or “shar-LOT”? A new list offers advice on how to pronounce the names of people, places, and things all over Michigan, from the late pop singer Aaliyah to the Zilwaukee Bridge. Betsie Branch works at the Michigan Braille and Talking Book Library. She has recorded many books about Michigan, but never had a guide on how to pronounce certain names. Branch tells WDET’s Pat Batcheller she and a student assistant decided to make a list and put it online. She also admits some who read the list–such as Armada Township residents–may disagree with it. Click on the audio player to hear the conversation.
Click here to see the pronunciation guide. Email comments/suggestions to btbl@michigan.gov.
