How to pronounce vital
Say it like VY-tul. Vital has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (VY).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce vital. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- VY
- tul
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Vital pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- VYSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in time.
- tulKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of vital
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: VY-tul.
What does vital mean?
- urgently needed; absolutely necessary“a critical element of the plan”“critical medical supplies”
- performing an essential function in the living body“vital organs”“blood and other vital fluids”
- full of spirit; full of life“a dynamic full of life woman”“a vital and charismatic leader”
Where does vital come from?
From Middle English vital, from Old French vital, from Latin vītālis (“of life, life-giving”), from vīta (“life”), from vīvō (“to live”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with vital
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of vital.
Questions about saying vital
How do you pronounce vital?
Say VY-tul. The American pronunciation is /ˈvaɪtəl/. In British English it is /ˈvaɪtəl/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in vital?
Vital has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (VY). Broken into parts: VY · tul.
Is vital 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 /ˈvaɪtəl/ (VY-tul).