How to pronounce characterize
Say it like KER-uk-tuh-ryze. Characterize has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KER).
- KER
- uk
- tuh
- ryze
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Characterize pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KERSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- ukKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- tuhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- ryzeGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in time.
American vs British pronunciation of characterize
American and British speakers say characterize in essentially the same way: /ˈkɛrəktəˌraɪz/ in the US and /ˈkærɪktəˌraɪz/ in the UK.
British respelling: KAR-ik-tuh-ryze.
What does characterize mean?
- To depict someone or something a particular way (often negative).
- To be typical of.
- To determine the characteristics of.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- qualify
- characterise
Questions about saying characterize
How do you pronounce characterize?
Say KER-uk-tuh-ryze. The American pronunciation is /ˈkɛrəktəˌraɪz/. In British English it is /ˈkærɪktəˌraɪz/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in characterize?
Characterize has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KER). Broken into parts: KER · uk · tuh · ryze.
Do Americans and Brits say characterize the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈkɛrəktəˌraɪz/ and the British form is /ˈkærɪktəˌraɪz/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.