If You Can Pronounce These 13 Words, You’ve Lived in New York for Far Too Long

New York – the Empire State, where the skyline’s iconic, the pizza’s foldable, and the place names are their own unique language. Between Native American roots, Dutch history, and good ol’ New York stubbornness, our town names are as much a test of character as they are a test of pronunciation. If you can nail these 13 words, you’re ready for a bagel with schmear and a no-nonsense attitude on the subway.

The 13 Words:

New York (New Yawk)

The real locals don’t even say the “R.”

Manhattan (Man-HAT-un)

Fast, direct, and never over-pronounced—just like the borough itself.

Poughkeepsie (Puh-KIP-see)

If you’re pronouncing all the vowels, you’re overthinking it.

Canandaigua (Can-un-DAY-gwah)

A beautiful Finger Lakes town with a name that trips up outsiders every time.

Tarrytown (TARE-ee-town)

Sleepy Hollow vibes, but keep the pronunciation awake.

Schroon Lake (SKROON Lake)

Not Shroon or Screw-on—locals will correct you politely (or not).

Patchogue (PATCH-og)

A Long Island town with a name as unique as its shoreline.

Cohoes (Kuh-HOZE)

Waterfalls and a name that flows just as smoothly.

Tonawanda (Ton-uh-WON-duh)

A Buffalo-area favorite and a name to separate the tourists from the locals.

Nyack (NIGH-ack)

Quick, sharp, and to the point—just like a New Yorker’s directions.

Skaneateles (Skinny-AT-liss)

Looks like a spelling bee nightmare, but it’s just a charming lake town.

Rensselaer (REN-suh-leer)

Roll it off your tongue like a true Upstate resident.

Chautauqua (Shuh-TAW-kwuh)

A beautiful word for a beautiful place—just don’t butcher it.

How’d you do? If you nailed these like a pro, you’ve definitely survived a snowy winter upstate or jaywalked through Manhattan traffic. If not, don’t worry—grab a slice of pizza, hop on the Metro-North, and keep practicing. Because in New York, it’s not just about how you say the names—it’s about the attitude you bring while saying them. 🗽🍕