How to pronounce deferential
Say it like def-uh-REN-chul. Deferential has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (REN).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce deferential. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- def
- uh
- REN
- chul
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Deferential pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- defGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- RENSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- chulKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of deferential
American and British speakers say deferential in essentially the same way: /ˌdɛfəˈrɛntʃəl/ in the US and /ˌdɛfəˈrɛntʃəl/ in the UK.
British respelling: def-uh-REN-chul.
What does deferential mean?
- Respectful and considerate; showing deference.
- Based on deference; based on the doctrine, ideology, or wishes of others rather than one's own conclusions.
- Of or relating to the vas deferens.
Where does deferential come from?
From deference (or its Latin type *dēferentia) + -al; compare essence, essential; prudence, prudential, etc.
Similar and opposite words
Opposite meaning
Words that rhyme with deferential
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of deferential.
Questions about saying deferential
How do you pronounce deferential?
Say def-uh-REN-chul. The American pronunciation is /ˌdɛfəˈrɛntʃəl/. In British English it is /ˌdɛfəˈrɛntʃəl/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in deferential?
Deferential has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (REN). Broken into parts: def · uh · REN · chul.
Do Americans and Brits say deferential the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˌdɛfəˈrɛntʃəl/ and the British form is /ˌdɛfəˈrɛntʃəl/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.