How to pronounce derivative
Say it like duh-RIV-uh-tiv. Derivative has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (RIV).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce derivative. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- duh
- RIV
- uh
- tiv
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Derivative 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.
- RIVSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- tivKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of derivative
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: duh-RIV-uh-tiv.
What does derivative mean?
- the result of mathematical differentiation; the instantaneous change of one quantity relative to another; df(x)/dx
- a compound obtained from, or regarded as derived from, another compound
- a financial instrument whose value is based on another security
- resulting from or employing derivation“a derivative process”“a highly derivative prose style”
Where does derivative come from?
From Middle French dérivatif, from Latin dērīvātus, perfect passive participle of dērīvō (“to derive”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying derivative
How do you pronounce derivative?
Say duh-RIV-uh-tiv. The American pronunciation is /dəˈrɪvətɪv/. In British English it is /dəˈrɪvətɪv/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in derivative?
Derivative has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (RIV). Broken into parts: duh · RIV · uh · tiv.
Is derivative pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t. The British form is /dəˈrɪvətɪv/ (duh-RIV-uh-tiv).