How to pronounce alibi
Say it like AL-uh-by. Alibi has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (AL).
- AL
- uh
- by
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Alibi pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- ALSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- byGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in time.
American vs British pronunciation of alibi
American and British speakers say alibi in essentially the same way: /ˈæləˌbaɪ/ in the US and /ˈælɪˌbaɪ/ in the UK.
British respelling: AL-ih-by.
What does alibi mean?
- The plea or mode of defense under which a person on trial for a crime proves or attempts to prove being in another place when the alleged act was committed.“to set up an alibi”
- An excuse, especially one used to avoid responsibility or blame.
- To provide an alibi for.
- To provide an excuse for.
Where does alibi come from?
From the 18th century, from Latin alibī (“elsewhere, at another place”, adverb).
Questions about saying alibi
How do you pronounce alibi?
Say AL-uh-by. The American pronunciation is /ˈæləˌbaɪ/. In British English it is /ˈælɪˌbaɪ/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in alibi?
Alibi has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (AL). Broken into parts: AL · uh · by.
Do Americans and Brits say alibi the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈæləˌbaɪ/ and the British form is /ˈælɪˌbaɪ/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.