Here´s a word whose pronunciation vexes just about everyone, including our Usage Panel. In a recent ballot, 46 percent of the panelists preferred the pronunciation (b-nl´), rhyming with canal; 38 percent said they used (b´nl), rhyming with anal; 14 percent said (b-näl´), second syllable rhyming with doll; and 2 percent used (bn´l), rhyming with panel. In this situation, there really is no right or wrong choice. Use any of the first three and you will have lots of company.
-n
l´), rhyming with canal; 38 percent said they used (b
´n
