How to pronounce WhatsApp correctly: WhatsApp or Whats App - briefly?
To pronounce "WhatsApp" correctly, it should be said as one word, not two separate words. Thus, the correct pronunciation is "WhatsApp," not "What's App."
How to pronounce WhatsApp correctly: WhatsApp or Whats App - in detail?
The correct pronunciation of the popular messaging application WhatsApp is a subject that often sparks debate among users and language enthusiasts alike. To address this, it's important to understand the origins and intended pronunciation of the name.
The name "WhatsApp" was coined by its founders, Jan Koum and Brian Acton, in 2009. The inspiration behind the name came from the phrase "What's up?" which is a common greeting in English-speaking countries. This casual and friendly tone was deliberately chosen to reflect the app's primary function as a messaging platform designed for quick and easy communication.
When it comes to pronunciation, the proper way to say WhatsApp is as a single word: "WhatsApp". The name should not be broken down into two separate words, "What's" and "App", but rather pronounced smoothly as one entity. This approach aligns with how many tech companies prefer their brand names to be treated—as unique identities rather than descriptive phrases.
To further clarify, the correct pronunciation is:
- /ˈwɑːtˌsæp/ in American English
- /ˈwɒts æp/ in British English
In essence, the "Whats" part should rhyme with "what's", and the "App" part should sound like "app". Combining these elements seamlessly ensures that you are pronouncing WhatsApp correctly.
Adhering to this pronunciation not only respects the original intention of the creators but also helps maintain a consistent and professional image when discussing or referring to the application in both formal and informal settings.