How to pronounce skepticism
Say it like SKEP-tih-siz-um. Skepticism has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SKEP).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce skepticism. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- SKEP
- tih
- siz
- um
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Skepticism pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SKEPSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- tihKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- sizGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- umKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of skepticism
American and British speakers say skepticism in essentially the same way: /ˈskɛptɪˌsɪzəm/ in the US and /ˈskɛptɪˌsɪzəm/ in the UK.
British respelling: SKEP-tih-siz-um.
What does skepticism mean?
- The practice or philosophy of being a skeptic.
- A studied attitude of questioning and doubt.
- The doctrine that absolute knowledge is not possible.
Where does skepticism come from?
From New Latin skepticismus; equivalent to skeptic + -ism.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying skepticism
How do you pronounce skepticism?
Say SKEP-tih-siz-um. The American pronunciation is /ˈskɛptɪˌsɪzəm/. In British English it is /ˈskɛptɪˌsɪzəm/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in skepticism?
Skepticism has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SKEP). Broken into parts: SKEP · tih · siz · um.
Do Americans and Brits say skepticism the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈskɛptɪˌsɪzəm/ and the British form is /ˈskɛptɪˌsɪzəm/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.