Learn How to Pronounce Ipanema | YouPronounce.it
How to Pronounce Ipanema
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)
Meaning and Context
Ipanema is a globally renowned and affluent neighborhood situated in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, celebrated for its breathtaking crescent-shaped beach framed by the iconic Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) mountain peaks. Synonymous with the sophisticated yet relaxed carioca lifestyle, Ipanema rose to international fame as the inspiration for the timeless bossa nova anthem "The Girl from Ipanema," composed in 1962. The area seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban vibrancy, featuring a dynamic cultural scene, high-end fashion boutiques along Rua Visconde de Pirajá, and a diverse culinary landscape ranging from traditional botecos to gourmet restaurants. As a premier tourist destination, its beach is a social tapestry divided into informal postos (lifeguard stations) that attract distinct crowds, from families to artists and the LGBTQ+ community. The neighborhood's influence extends beyond geography, having inspired the widely popular Ipanema flip-flops, a staple of Brazilian beach culture known for their ergonomic design and vibrant colors.
Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings
The primary spelling of the neighborhood is Ipanema, which is consistent in both Portuguese and English usage. A common and understandable misspelling is "Ipenema," substituting an 'e' for the first 'a', likely due to phonetic interpretation. Other frequent typos include "Ipaneama" (transposing the 'e' and 'a') and "Ipanima." When referring to the brand of footwear, it is crucial to maintain the correct spelling "Ipanema" as part of the trademark (e.g., Ipanema sandals or Ipanema flip-flops), as variations like "Ipenema flip flops" are incorrect. The name itself is of Tupi origin, meaning "bad, dangerous water," a historical reference to its coastal waters, and this standardized spelling has been firmly established since the neighborhood's formal development in the late 19th century.
Example Sentences
After a morning of sunbathing on the famous shores of Ipanema, we strolled through the neighborhood's leafy streets to find a cozy café for açaí.
The annual New Year's Eve celebration on Ipanema Beach, known as Réveillon, attracts thousands dressed in white to watch a spectacular fireworks display.
Many visitors seek out the exact spot near Posto 9 where Tom Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes penned "The Girl from Ipanema.
" She purchased a pair of comfortable, stylish Ipanema flip-flops as the perfect souvenir of her trip to Rio.
The real estate market in Ipanema remains among the most exclusive and expensive in all of South America.
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