How to pronounce expression
Say it like ik-SPRESH-un. Expression has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (SPRESH).
- ik
- SPRESH
- un
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Expression pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- ikKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- SPRESHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- unKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of expression
American and British speakers say expression in essentially the same way: /ɪkˈsprɛʃən/ in the US and /ɪkˈsprɛʃən/ in the UK.
British respelling: ik-SPRESH-un.
What does expression mean?
- The action of expressing thoughts, ideas, feelings, etc.
- A particular way of phrasing an idea.
- A colloquialism or idiom.“The expression "break a leg!" should not be taken literally.”
Where does expression come from?
Morphologically express + -ion.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- look
- aspect
- facial expression
- face
- manifestation
- reflection
- reflexion
- verbal expression
Words that rhyme with expression
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of expression.
Questions about saying expression
How do you pronounce expression?
Say ik-SPRESH-un. The American pronunciation is /ɪkˈsprɛʃən/. In British English it is /ɪkˈsprɛʃən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in expression?
Expression has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (SPRESH). Broken into parts: ik · SPRESH · un.
Do Americans and Brits say expression the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ɪkˈsprɛʃən/ and the British form is /ɪkˈsprɛʃən/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.