How to pronounce inquisitive
Say it like in-KWIZ-ih-tiv. Inquisitive has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (KWIZ).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce inquisitive. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- in
- KWIZ
- ih
- tiv
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Inquisitive pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- inGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- KWIZSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- ihKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- tivKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of inquisitive
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: in-KWIZ-ih-tiv.
What does inquisitive mean?
- Eager to acquire knowledge; acquisitive.
- Too curious; overly interested; nosy.
Where does inquisitive come from?
Late 14th century, from Old French inquisitif, from Late Latin inquisitivus, from Latin inquisitus, past participle of inquirere.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying inquisitive
How do you pronounce inquisitive?
Say in-KWIZ-ih-tiv. The American pronunciation is /ˌɪnˈkwɪzɪtɪv/. In British English it is /ˌɪnˈkwɪzɪtɪv/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in inquisitive?
Inquisitive has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (KWIZ). Broken into parts: in · KWIZ · ih · tiv.
Is inquisitive 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 /ˌɪnˈkwɪzɪtɪv/ (in-KWIZ-ih-tiv).