How to pronounce neutral
Say it like NOO-trul. Neutral has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (NOO).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce neutral. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- NOO
- trul
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Neutral pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- NOOSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "oo" in food.
- trulKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of neutral
- British speakers add a light "y" sound before the "oo" (as in "tyoon" for tune).
British respelling: NYOO-trul.
What does neutral mean?
- having no personal preference“impersonal criticism”“a neutral observer”
- having only a limited ability to react chemically; chemically inactive“inert matter”“an indifferent chemical in a reaction”
- not supporting or favoring either side in a war, dispute, or contest
- one who does not side with any party in a war or dispute
Where does neutral come from?
From Middle French neutral (compare modern French neutre), from Latin neutrālis.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Opposite meaning
Questions about saying neutral
How do you pronounce neutral?
Say NOO-trul. The American pronunciation is /ˈnutrəl/. In British English it is /ˈnjuːtrəl/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in neutral?
Neutral has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (NOO). Broken into parts: NOO · trul.
Is neutral pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. British speakers add a light "y" sound before the "oo" (as in "tyoon" for tune). The British form is /ˈnjuːtrəl/ (NYOO-trul).