How to pronounce function
Say it like FUHNGK-shun. Function has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (FUHNGK).
- FUHNGK
- shun
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Function pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- FUHNGKSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- shunKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of function
American and British speakers say function in essentially the same way: /ˈfʌŋkʃən/ in the US and /ˈfʌŋkʃən/ in the UK.
British respelling: FUHNGK-shun.
What does function mean?
- (mathematics) a mathematical relation such that each element of a given set (the domain of the function) is associated with an element of another set (the range of the function)
- what something is used for“the function of an auger is to bore holes”“ballet is beautiful but what use is it?”
- the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group“the function of a teacher”“the government must do its part”
- perform as expected when applied“The washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in”“Does this old car still run well?”
- serve a purpose, role, or function“The tree stump serves as a table”“The female students served as a control group”
- perform duties attached to a particular office or place or function“His wife officiated as his private secretary”
Where does function come from?
From Middle French function, from Old French fonction, from Latin functiō (“performance, execution”), from functus, perfect participle of fungor (“to perform, execute, discharge”), from Proto-Indo-European *bʰewg- (“to enjoy”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Opposite meaning
Words that rhyme with function
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of function.
Questions about saying function
How do you pronounce function?
Say FUHNGK-shun. The American pronunciation is /ˈfʌŋkʃən/. In British English it is /ˈfʌŋkʃən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in function?
Function has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (FUHNGK). Broken into parts: FUHNGK · shun.
Do Americans and Brits say function the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈfʌŋkʃən/ and the British form is /ˈfʌŋkʃən/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.