How to pronounce observing
Say it like ub-ZUR-ving. Observing has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (ZUR).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce observing. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- ub
- ZUR
- ving
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Observing pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- ubKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- ZURSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ur" in nurse.
- vingKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of observing
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: ob-ZUR-ving.
What does observing mean?
- quick to notice; showing quick and keen perception
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with observing
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of observing.
Questions about saying observing
How do you pronounce observing?
Say ub-ZUR-ving. The American pronunciation is /əbˈzɝvɪŋ/. In British English it is /ɒbˈzɜːvɪŋ/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in observing?
Observing has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (ZUR). Broken into parts: ub · ZUR · ving.
Is observing 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 /ɒbˈzɜːvɪŋ/ (ob-ZUR-ving).