From the words lettered A to D, choose the one that has the correct stress Calculator

Analyze the question: You are asked to pick the correct stress pattern for the word "calculator" (4 syllables: cal-cu-la-tor).

Concept: In English, many words ending in -ator (like operator, generator, spectator) put the primary stress early in the word, not on the final syllable. The stress often falls on the first syllable for words of 3 or more syllables of this type. Examples:

• OP-er-a-tor
• GEN-er-a-tor
• CAL-cu-la-tor
• ES-ca-la-tor

(Exception: spec-TA-tor and cre-A-tor, which are different patterns because of their prefixes or structure.)

Solution:

1. Syllables: cal | cu | la | tor
2. The word comes from the verb calculate (CAL-cu-late), which has stress on the first syllable.
3. The noun form keeps that stress: CAL-cu-la-tor.
4. Checking the other options: • B (cal-CU-la-tor): stress on the second syllable is incorrect. • C (cal-cu-LA-tor): this is the stress for words like spec-TA-tor, not here. • D (cal-cu-la-TOR): the final syllable is never the primary stress in this word.

Answer: A. CAL-cu-la-tor

Exam tip: For words ending in -ator that come from verbs ending in -ate (calculate, operate, generate, escalate), stress usually stays on the first syllable. Say the verb aloud first, and the noun will follow the same pattern.