How to Pronounce “arbitrary”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ˈɑɹ.bɪˌtɹɛɹ.i/
- British (UK)
- /ˈɑː.bɪ.tɹə.ɹi/
- Australian (AU)
- /ˈɐː.bɪ.tɹə.ɹi/
What “arbitrary” means
adjective — Based on personal choice or chance rather than reason or system.
Example: The cut-off date was completely arbitrary.
Synonyms: random, capricious
Antonyms: principled, reasoned
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “arbitrary” has 4 syllables, and the transcription /ˈɑɹ.bɪˌtɹɛɹ.i/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the first one — so the first syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "arbitrary" mean?
arbitrary (adjective): Based on personal choice or chance rather than reason or system. For example — The cut-off date was completely arbitrary.
How do you pronounce "arbitrary" in American vs British English?
American English: /ˈɑɹ.bɪˌtɹɛɹ.i/. British English: /ˈɑː.bɪ.tɹə.ɹi/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "arbitrary"?
/ˈɑɹ.bɪˌtɹɛɹ.i/ in American English, /ˈɑː.bɪ.tɹə.ɹi/ in British English, /ˈɐː.bɪ.tɹə.ɹi/ in Australian English.
Which syllable is stressed in "arbitrary"?
“arbitrary” has 4 syllables, and the transcription /ˈɑɹ.bɪˌtɹɛɹ.i/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the first one — so the first syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
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