How to pronounce multipurpose
Say it like MUHL-tee-pur-pus. Multipurpose has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (MUHL).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce multipurpose. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- MUHL
- tee
- pur
- pus
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Multipurpose pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- MUHLSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- teeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
- purKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ur" in nurse.
- pusKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of multipurpose
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: MUHL-tee-pur-pus.
What does multipurpose mean?
- Designed or intended to fit more than one type of function or application; having multiple uses.
Where does multipurpose come from?
From multi- + purpose.
Questions about saying multipurpose
How do you pronounce multipurpose?
Say MUHL-tee-pur-pus. The American pronunciation is /ˈmʌltipɝpəs/. In British English it is /ˈmʌltipɜːpəs/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in multipurpose?
Multipurpose has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (MUHL). Broken into parts: MUHL · tee · pur · pus.
Is multipurpose pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead. The British form is /ˈmʌltipɜːpəs/ (MUHL-tee-pur-pus).