How to pronounce protocol
Say it like PROH-tuh-kol. Protocol has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PROH).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce protocol. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- PROH
- tuh
- kol
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Protocol pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- PROHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "o" in go.
- tuhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- kolGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
American vs British pronunciation of protocol
- The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English.
- The long o starts further forward in British English, closer to "uh-oo" than the American "oh".
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: PROH-tuh-kol.
What does protocol mean?
- (computer science) rules determining the format and transmission of data
- forms of ceremony and etiquette observed by diplomats and heads of state
- code of correct conduct“safety protocols”“academic protocol”
Questions about saying protocol
How do you pronounce protocol?
Say PROH-tuh-kol. The American pronunciation is /ˈproʊtəˌkɑl/. In British English it is /ˈprəʊtəˌkɒl/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in protocol?
Protocol has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PROH). Broken into parts: PROH · tuh · kol.
Is protocol pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English. The British form is /ˈprəʊtəˌkɒl/ (PROH-tuh-kol).