How to Pronounce Common Arizona Words

In Phoenix, many locals use words that have either a Mexican or Indian influence. If you're new to the area or don't speak Spanish, you might be bewildered when it comes to saguaro, cholla, Gila monster, and some of the other words that are in every native Arizonan's vocabulary. Learning how to pronounce them will allow you to speak like a native Arizonan.

This word is used to describe someone who lives in Phoenix. You'll see it as part of business names and even on the namesake Scottsdale resort. It's pronounced "fun-ee-shun." One Common error: pronouncing the first syllable like it is a phone.

This large cactus, often with arms, is found only in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and Mexico. The saguaro flower is Arizona's state flower. It's pronounced "suh-wah-roe." You don't pronounce the word with a hard "G."

Cholla is a common Arizona cactus of which there are many different varieties. Don't get too close. Ouch! It's pronounced "choy-ah." Common error: pronouncing the double L like the word ball.

Ocotillo is a tall, spiny cactus that gets red tips in the spring. It's pronounced "oh-cat-tee-yo." Like "cholla," a common error is pronouncing the double L like the word ball.

This lizard is about two feet long when fully grown. It's pronounced "hee-lah;" you do not pronounce it with a hard "g."

Often mistaken for a wild pig, this animal is found in desert areas. It's a collared peccary (Pecari tajac). Don't try to make friends. It's pronounced "have-a-leen-a." Common error: pronouncing the first letter "J" like the name Judy.

These various shrubs or small trees are popular wood for fireplaces since it burns slowly and doesn't smoke. Pronounce it "mess-keet." Do not pronounce the last syllable as it rhymes with the word "white."

Yucca is the name for various types of desert plants, mostly with long pointy leaves. Pronounce it as "yuk-uh." One common error is pronouncing the first syllable to rhyme with the name "Sue."

• Sometimes "saguaro" is spelled "sahuaro." It's pronounced the same.
• Generally speaking, if you come across two 'L's in a row, they'll be pronounced like a 'Y' sound. In the case of 'saguaro' and 'Juan,' the 'gu' and 'ju' are pronounced like a 'W.'
• Sometimes, when you come across a 'G' or 'J' it will be pronounced like an 'H.'
• If you love Mexican food, but you aren't sure how to pronounce some of your favorite menu items, this guide will help with that.