How to pronounce calling
Say it like KAW-ling. Calling has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KAW).
- KAW
- ling
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Calling pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KAWSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "aw" in law.
- lingKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of calling
American and British speakers say calling in essentially the same way: /ˈkɔlɪŋ/ in the US and /ˈkɔːlɪŋ/ in the UK.
British respelling: KAW-ling.
What does calling mean?
- present participle and gerund of call How to pronounce call
- A strong urge (to do some particular thing with or in one's life, for example to become religious, to help the poor, or to be an entertainer).
- A job or occupation.
Where does calling come from?
Inherited from Middle English callyng, kallyng, kalland, from Old English *cealliende and Old Norse kallandi, equivalent to call + -ing.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with calling
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of calling.
Questions about saying calling
How do you pronounce calling?
Say KAW-ling. The American pronunciation is /ˈkɔlɪŋ/. In British English it is /ˈkɔːlɪŋ/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in calling?
Calling has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KAW). Broken into parts: KAW · ling.
Do Americans and Brits say calling the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈkɔlɪŋ/ and the British form is /ˈkɔːlɪŋ/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.