How to pronounce dependence
Say it like dih-PEN-duns. Dependence has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (PEN).
- dih
- PEN
- duns
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Dependence pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- dihKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- PENSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- dunsKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of dependence
American and British speakers say dependence in essentially the same way: /dɪˈpɛndəns/ in the US and /dɪˈpɛndəns/ in the UK.
British respelling: dih-PEN-duns.
What does dependence mean?
- the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else
- being abnormally tolerant to and dependent on something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming (especially alcohol or narcotic drugs)
Where does dependence come from?
From Middle French dépendance.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with dependence
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of dependence.
Questions about saying dependence
How do you pronounce dependence?
Say dih-PEN-duns. The American pronunciation is /dɪˈpɛndəns/. In British English it is /dɪˈpɛndəns/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in dependence?
Dependence has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (PEN). Broken into parts: dih · PEN · duns.
Do Americans and Brits say dependence the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /dɪˈpɛndəns/ and the British form is /dɪˈpɛndəns/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.