How to pronounce clemency
Say it like KLEM-unt-see. Clemency has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KLEM).
- KLEM
- unt
- see
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Clemency pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KLEMSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- untKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- seeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of clemency
American and British speakers say clemency in essentially the same way: /ˈklɛməntsi/ in the US and /ˈklɛmənsi/ in the UK.
British respelling: KLEM-un-see.
What does clemency mean?
- The gentle or kind exercise of power; leniency, mercy; compassion in judging or punishing.
- A pardon, commutation, or similar reduction, removal, or postponement of legal penalties by an executive officer of a state.
Where does clemency come from?
Gradually eclipsed Middle English clemence, from Old French clemence, from the same Latin origin.
Questions about saying clemency
How do you pronounce clemency?
Say KLEM-unt-see. The American pronunciation is /ˈklɛməntsi/. In British English it is /ˈklɛmənsi/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in clemency?
Clemency has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KLEM). Broken into parts: KLEM · unt · see.
Do Americans and Brits say clemency the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈklɛməntsi/ and the British form is /ˈklɛmənsi/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.