The following question was presented:
This week it's all about The Queen's English. Well at least part of it anyway. We're going to attempt to solve once and for all the correct pronunciation of scone. So, how do you pronounce scone?
Results:
sc-own was the clear winner with 57% of the votes selected from the following:
- sc-on (43%)
- sc-own (57%)
Graphic of Results:
Analysis:
Interesting ... firstly because the number of voters is up about back to normal, but secondly because the vote was split. On the first count, I'm pretty sure it was due to holidays/vacations. The second count is interesting as the results of this vote are almost identical to big surveys that have been done on the topic. How much time do people have to waste? The majority of the world pronounces it sc-own, but the story doesn't end there as each country has its own take. The only country that is close to having an exclusive pronunciation is Ireland that use sc-own. The US also heavily leans this way, but the UK is the opposite with most people there using sc-on. The thing that's really interesting is that it's the word that most people feel passionate about how it's pronounced and yet it's a battle you're not going to win because of the divide. The definitive answer can, however, be found in the following rhyme:
I asked the maid in dulcet tone
To order me a buttered scone
The silly girl has been and gone
And order me a buttered scone
So that settles that!