How to pronounce definitely
Say it like DEF-uh-nut-lee. Definitely has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DEF).
- DEF
- uh
- nut
- lee
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Definitely 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.
- leeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of definitely
American and British speakers say definitely in essentially the same way: /ˈdɛfənətli/ in the US and /ˈdɛfɪnɪtli/ in the UK.
British respelling: DEF-ih-nit-lee.
What does definitely mean?
- Without question and beyond doubt.“Joe definitely doesn't know how to drive a tractor.”
- In a definite manner; decisively.
Where does definitely come from?
From definite + -ly.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- positively
- decidedly
- unquestionably
- emphatically
- in spades
- by all odds
Questions about saying definitely
How do you pronounce definitely?
Say DEF-uh-nut-lee. The American pronunciation is /ˈdɛfənətli/. In British English it is /ˈdɛfɪnɪtli/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in definitely?
Definitely has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DEF). Broken into parts: DEF · uh · nut · lee.
Do Americans and Brits say definitely the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈdɛfənətli/ and the British form is /ˈdɛfɪnɪtli/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.