How to Pronounce Chattogram

Meaning and Context

Chattogram, officially renamed from Chittagong in 2018 to reflect its local Bengali pronunciation, is the principal maritime gateway and second-largest urban center in Bangladesh, with a metropolitan population exceeding nine million. Historically a crucial port on the Bay of Bengal for centuries, the city has evolved into the nation's economic engine, housing the Port of Chattogram—the busiest seaport in Bangladesh and a pivotal hub for international trade and logistics in South Asia. Beyond its industrial and commercial significance, Chattogram is distinguished by its undulating topography, featuring the scenic Chattogram Hill Tracts, lush tea gardens, and a coastline that includes popular beaches like Patenga and Cox's Bazar nearby. This juxtaposition of a bustling industrial port city with natural attractions like Karnaphuli River views and historic sites such as the WWII Allied War Cemetery makes it a uniquely multifaceted destination for commerce and tourism alike.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The primary point of confusion lies between "Chattogram" and "Chittagong." "Chattogram" is the official Bengali transliteration and has been the government-mandated English spelling since 2018, intended to align with local pronunciation. "Chittagong" remains the widely recognized historical and colonial-era spelling, still prevalent in international contexts, older academic works, and common usage. Frequent typos and variants include "Chittagram," "Chattagram," "Chittagong," and "Chattogong." The abbreviated form "CTG" is also commonly used in logistics, business, and domestic travel. When writing, it is advisable to use "Chattogram" for current official contexts, while acknowledging "Chittagong" in historical discussion or if referencing sources that predate the change.

Example Sentences

The Port of Chattogram handles over 90% of Bangladesh's import-export trade, solidifying the city's status as the country's commercial lifeline.

Many tourists begin their journey to the hill tracts and tribal markets of Bandarban from the bustling terminals of Chattogram.

While Chittagong was the name used on old colonial maps, modern official documents now uniformly refer to the city as Chattogram.

The industrial growth in the city's outskirts contrasts sharply with the serene beauty of its surrounding hills and rivers.

A common itinerary for visitors includes exploring the vibrant Khatunganj wholesale market before escaping to the calm of the Foy's Lake area.

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