Karaoke (pronounciation "Cahh-rahh-oh-keh")
This is a Japanese word derived from Kara: meaning "Space" and Oke:
meaning "Orchestration", which is sometimes translated literally
as "Empty Orchestra".
While the proper pronunciation is "Cahh-rahh-oh-keh" most mid-westerner's
still say "Ker'owkee" or "Kerry-Oh-Key". The history of this mispronunciation can be
traced back most assuredly to our Lutefisk devouring ancestors who taught us
to say things like "Ya Sure" and "You Bet".
If you've always pronounced karaoke correctly and you find this
somewhat confusing then you're obviously a transplant and not a native
Minnesotan. If this is the case, you will need to buy a copy of the
book "How To Talk Minnesotan" to avoid ridicule at local karaoke shows.
Dan
Please email me
if you have a tidbit of trivial or fun facts to share.
