How to pronounce cognizant
Say it like KOG-nuh-zunt. Cognizant has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KOG).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce cognizant. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- KOG
- nuh
- zunt
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Cognizant pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KOGSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
- nuhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- zuntKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of cognizant
- The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English.
British respelling: KOG-nih-zunt.
What does cognizant mean?
- Aware; fully informed; having understanding of a fact.“The defendant is cognizant that this is a serious charge.”
- Sapient; self-aware.“Is the cat truly cognizant in any real way?”
Where does cognizant come from?
A new formation from cognizance + -ant; first attested in the 19th century.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying cognizant
How do you pronounce cognizant?
Say KOG-nuh-zunt. The American pronunciation is /ˈkɑɡnəzənt/. In British English it is /ˈkɒɡnɪzənt/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in cognizant?
Cognizant has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KOG). Broken into parts: KOG · nuh · zunt.
Is cognizant pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English. The British form is /ˈkɒɡnɪzənt/ (KOG-nih-zunt).