How to pronounce derision
Say it like duh-RIZH-un. Derision has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (RIZH).
- duh
- RIZH
- un
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Derision pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- duhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- RIZHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- unKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of derision
American and British speakers say derision in essentially the same way: /dəˈrɪʒən/ in the US and /dɪˈrɪʒən/ in the UK.
British respelling: dih-RIZH-un.
What does derision mean?
- Act of treating with disdain.
- Something to be derided; a laughing stock.
Where does derision come from?
From Old French derision, from Latin dērīsiōnem, accusative of dērīsiō, from dērīdēre ("to mock, to laugh at, to deride").
Words that rhyme with derision
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of derision.
Questions about saying derision
How do you pronounce derision?
Say duh-RIZH-un. The American pronunciation is /dəˈrɪʒən/. In British English it is /dɪˈrɪʒən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in derision?
Derision has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (RIZH). Broken into parts: duh · RIZH · un.
Do Americans and Brits say derision the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /dəˈrɪʒən/ and the British form is /dɪˈrɪʒən/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.