How does stress placement distinguish the verb "to pro duce" from the noun "pro duce"?

The verb is stressed on the second syllable (to pro duce), while the noun referring to goods is stressed on the first syllable (pro duce).

The English word "produce" exhibits a fascinating linguistic distinction based entirely on where the emphasis or stress falls during pronunciation, which consequently dictates its meaning. When used as a verb, meaning the act of making, creating, or bringing forth something, the stress is placed on the second syllable, sounding like 'to proDOOCE'. This verb form relates directly to the active process of growing things. Conversely, when the word is used as a noun to identify the harvested edible goods—the collection of items that have been brought forth—the stress shifts entirely to the first syllable, sounding like 'PRO-duce'. This phonological shift is a characteristic way the English language evolves word meanings, though it can present challenges for language learners learning to navigate between the action and the resulting object.