How to pronounce definite
Say it like DEF-uh-nut. Definite has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DEF).
- DEF
- uh
- nut
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Definite pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- DEFSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- nutKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of definite
American and British speakers say definite in essentially the same way: /ˈdɛfənət/ in the US and /ˈdɛfɪnɪt/ in the UK.
British respelling: DEF-ih-nit.
What does definite mean?
- Having distinct limits.“definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval”
- Free from any doubt.“definite knowledge”
- Determined; resolved; decided.
- A word or phrase that designates a specified or identified person or entity.
Where does definite come from?
From Latin dēfīnītus, past participle of dēfīniō, whence also English define.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Opposite meaning
Questions about saying definite
How do you pronounce definite?
Say DEF-uh-nut. The American pronunciation is /ˈdɛfənət/. In British English it is /ˈdɛfɪnɪt/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in definite?
Definite has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DEF). Broken into parts: DEF · uh · nut.
Do Americans and Brits say definite the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈdɛfənət/ and the British form is /ˈdɛfɪnɪt/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.