How to pronounce sequence
Say it like SEE-kwuns. Sequence has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SEE).
- SEE
- kwuns
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Sequence pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SEESay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
- kwunsKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of sequence
American and British speakers say sequence in essentially the same way: /ˈsikwəns/ in the US and /ˈsiːkwəns/ in the UK.
British respelling: SEE-kwuns.
What does sequence mean?
- A set of things next to each other in a set order; a series.“An alphabet follows a sequence.”
- The state of being sequent or following; order of succession.“Complete the listed tasks in sequence.”
- A series of musical phrases where a theme or melody is repeated, with some change each time, such as in pitch or length (example: opening of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony).
- To arrange (something) in an order.“We sequenced the code to keep it organised.”
- To determine the order of monomers in (a biological polymer), e.g. of amino acids in (a protein), or of bases in (a nucleic acid).
- To produce (music) with a sequencer.
Where does sequence come from?
From Middle English sequence, from Old French sequence (“a sequence of cards, answering verses”), from Late Latin sequentia (“a following”), from Latin sequēns (“following”), from sequī (“to follow”); see sequent.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- array
- chain
- procession
- consecution
- series
- chronological sequence
- succession
- successiveness
Questions about saying sequence
How do you pronounce sequence?
Say SEE-kwuns. The American pronunciation is /ˈsikwəns/. In British English it is /ˈsiːkwəns/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in sequence?
Sequence has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SEE). Broken into parts: SEE · kwuns.
Do Americans and Brits say sequence the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈsikwəns/ and the British form is /ˈsiːkwəns/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.