Etiquette Expert Settles Scone Pronunciation Debate

The age-old debate over how to pronounce the British treat, 'scone,' has been reignited, this time with input from a noted etiquette expert. William Hanson, author of 'Just Good Manners,' has declared his stance, asserting that 'scone' should rhyme with 'gone.' He suggests that the alternative pronunciation, rhyming with 'bone' or 'cone,' is often used for perceived social elevation.

Hanson's view, however, is complicated by the historical Scone Palace in Scotland, whose name is pronounced to rhyme with 'moon.' He humorously notes that while this pronunciation exists, saying 'scoones' would sound 'like a loon.' This acknowledgement of nuance has led to further online discourse, with many viewers sharing their own pronunciations and allegiances.

Adding to the complexity, lexicographer Susie Dent offers a more inclusive perspective. Citing the Oxford English Dictionary, Dent states that both pronunciations are considered correct. This leaves the debate open, with conflicting opinions from a prominent etiquette authority and a linguistic expert.