How to pronounce punitive
Say it like PYOO-nuh-tiv. Punitive has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PYOO).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce punitive. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- PYOO
- nuh
- tiv
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Punitive pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- PYOOSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "oo" in food.
- nuhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- tivKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of punitive
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: PYOO-nuh-tiv.
What does punitive mean?
- Inflicting punishment; punishing.“Beijing imposed punitive sanctions on Canada.”
Where does punitive come from?
From Middle French punitif, from Medieval Latin pūnitīvus, from pūniō (“to punish”).
Questions about saying punitive
How do you pronounce punitive?
Say PYOO-nuh-tiv. The American pronunciation is /ˈpjunətɪv/. In British English it is /ˈpjuːnətɪv/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in punitive?
Punitive has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PYOO). Broken into parts: PYOO · nuh · tiv.
Is punitive pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t. The British form is /ˈpjuːnətɪv/ (PYOO-nuh-tiv).