How to pronounce phlegm
Say it like FLEM. Phlegm is a single syllable, so the whole word carries the stress.
- FLEM
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Tip: The ph is f and the g is silent: 'flem'.
Phlegm pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- FLEMSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
American vs British pronunciation of phlegm
American and British speakers say phlegm in essentially the same way: /flɛm/ in the US and /flɛm/ in the UK.
British respelling: FLEM.
What does phlegm mean?
- Viscid mucus produced by the body, later especially mucus expelled from the bronchial passages by coughing.
- Calmness of temperament, composure; also seen negatively, sluggishness, indifference.
Where does phlegm come from?
The regularly developed form /fliːm/ has been displaced by a pronunciation /flɛm/ of uncertain provenance.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- emotionlessness
- impassivity
- impassiveness
- indifference
- stolidity
- unemotionality
- sputum
- languor
Words that rhyme with phlegm
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of phlegm.
Questions about saying phlegm
How do you pronounce phlegm?
Say FLEM. The American pronunciation is /flɛm/. In British English it is /flɛm/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in phlegm?
Phlegm is a single syllable, so the whole word carries the stress. Broken into parts: FLEM.
Do Americans and Brits say phlegm the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /flɛm/ and the British form is /flɛm/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.