How to pronounce perquisite
Say it like PUR-kwuh-zit. Perquisite has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PUR).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce perquisite. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- PUR
- kwuh
- zit
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Perquisite pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- PURSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ur" in nurse.
- kwuhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- zitKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of perquisite
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: PUR-kwih-zit.
What does perquisite mean?
- Any monetary or other incidental benefit beyond salary.“The perquisites of this job include health insurance and a performance bonus.”
- A gratuity.“After the wonderful service that evening he didn’t hesitate in laying a substantial perquisite on the table.”
- A privilege or possession held or claimed exclusively by a certain person, group or class.“Private jets and motor yachts are perquisites of the rich.”
Where does perquisite come from?
Borrowed from Medieval Latin perquīsītum (“something acquired for profit”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying perquisite
How do you pronounce perquisite?
Say PUR-kwuh-zit. The American pronunciation is /ˈpɝkwəzɪt/. In British English it is /ˈpɜːkwɪzɪt/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in perquisite?
Perquisite has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PUR). Broken into parts: PUR · kwuh · zit.
Is perquisite 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 /ˈpɜːkwɪzɪt/ (PUR-kwih-zit).