afford

How to Split "afford" into Syllables

The word afford is divided into 2 syllables: af·ford. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• af — 1st syllable
• ford — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of afford:

• IPA: /əˈfoɹd/

📖 Definitions

1. afford (third-person singular simple present affords, present participle affording, simple past and past participle afforded)
2. To incur, stand, or bear without serious detriment, as an act which might under other circumstances be injurious; (usually after an expression of ability, as could, able, difficult) to be able or rich enough; to spare.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English afforthen, aforthen, avorthien, from earlier iforthen, iforthien, ȝeforthien, from Old English forþian, ġeforþian (“to further, accomplish, afford”), from Proto-Germanic *furþōną, from Proto-Germanic *furþą (“forth, forward”), equivalent to a- +‎ forth. Cognate with Old Norse forða (“to forward oneself, save oneself, escape danger”), Icelandic forða (“to save, rescue”).

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down afford into syllables helps with:

• Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
• Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
• Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
• Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
• Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

📊 Similar Words Comparison

Compare afford with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word	Syllables	Division
afford	2	af·ford
Aphrodite	3	aphro-di-te
apartheid	2	a-partheid
abort	2	a-bort
aboveboard	4	a-bo-ve-board

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to afford:

affix, affair, affect, affine, affirm, affray, affable, afflict.