How to pronounce vocation
Say it like voh-KAY-shun. Vocation has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (KAY).
- voh
- KAY
- shun
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Vocation pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- vohKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "o" in go.
- KAYSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ay" in day.
- shunKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of vocation
- The long o starts further forward in British English, closer to "uh-oo" than the American "oh".
British respelling: voh-KAY-shun.
What does vocation mean?
- A divine calling to establish one's lifestyle.“The Catholic Church supports and teaches us that there are three vocations: the single life, married life, and the religious life or priesthood.”
- An occupation for which a person is suited, trained or qualified.“Nursing is a vocation that many people find horrendous.”
Where does vocation come from?
From Middle English vocacioun, from Old French vocation, from Latin vocātiō.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with vocation
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of vocation.
Questions about saying vocation
How do you pronounce vocation?
Say voh-KAY-shun. The American pronunciation is /voʊˈkeɪʃən/. In British English it is /vəʊˈkeɪʃən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in vocation?
Vocation has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (KAY). Broken into parts: voh · KAY · shun.
Is vocation pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. The long o starts further forward in British English, closer to "uh-oo" than the American "oh". The British form is /vəʊˈkeɪʃən/ (voh-KAY-shun).