How to pronounce semiformal
Say it like sem-eye-FOR-mul. Semiformal has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (FOR).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce semiformal. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- sem
- eye
- FOR
- mul
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Semiformal pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- semGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- eyeGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in time.
- FORSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "aw" in law.
- mulKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of semiformal
- American English uses 4 syllables and British English 3.
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: sem-ih-FAWML.
What does semiformal mean?
- Somewhat formal.
- Of clothing: having a level of formality between that of informal and formal wear.
- Of an event: having a semiformal dress code.
- A social event in which one is expected to dress in semiformal wear.
Where does semiformal come from?
From semi- + formal.
Words that rhyme with semiformal
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of semiformal.
Questions about saying semiformal
How do you pronounce semiformal?
Say sem-eye-FOR-mul. The American pronunciation is /ˌsɛˌmaɪˈfɔrməl/. In British English it is /ˌsɛmɪˈfɔːml/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in semiformal?
Semiformal has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (FOR). Broken into parts: sem · eye · FOR · mul.
Is semiformal pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. American English uses 4 syllables and British English 3. The British form is /ˌsɛmɪˈfɔːml/ (sem-ih-FAWML).