How to pronounce tentative
Say it like TEN-tuh-tiv. Tentative has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (TEN).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce tentative. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- TEN
- tuh
- tiv
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Tentative pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- TENSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- tuhKeep 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 tentative
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: TEN-tuh-tiv.
What does tentative mean?
- A trial; an experiment; an attempt.
- A schedule for an event or a program.
- Of or pertaining to a trial or trials; essaying; experimental.
- Uncertain; subject to future change.“He gave a tentative answer, unsure of the final outcome.”
- Restrained; polite; feeling one's way, not using full force.“Her tentative steps showed her nervousness as she entered the room.”
Where does tentative come from?
From Medieval Latin tentātīvus (“trying, testing”), from tentō, past participle tentātus (“to try, test”); see tent, tempt.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with tentative
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of tentative.
Questions about saying tentative
How do you pronounce tentative?
Say TEN-tuh-tiv. The American pronunciation is /ˈtɛntətɪv/. In British English it is /ˈtɛntətɪv/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in tentative?
Tentative has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (TEN). Broken into parts: TEN · tuh · tiv.
Is tentative 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 /ˈtɛntətɪv/ (TEN-tuh-tiv).