How to pronounce cataclysm
Say it like KAT-uh-klis-um. Cataclysm has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KAT).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce cataclysm. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- KAT
- uh
- klis
- um
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Cataclysm pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KATSay 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.
- klisGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- umKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of cataclysm
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: KAT-uh-kliz-um.
What does cataclysm mean?
- A sudden, violent event.
- A sudden and violent change in the earth's crust.
- A great flood.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying cataclysm
How do you pronounce cataclysm?
Say KAT-uh-klis-um. The American pronunciation is /ˈkætəˌklɪsəm/. In British English it is /ˈkætəˌklɪzəm/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in cataclysm?
Cataclysm has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KAT). Broken into parts: KAT · uh · klis · um.
Is cataclysm pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t. The British form is /ˈkætəˌklɪzəm/ (KAT-uh-kliz-um).