How to Pronounce “arguably”

American (US)

/ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/

British (UK)

/ˈɑːɡjuəbli/

adverb — As can be supported or proven by sound logical deduction, evidence, and precedent, but without absolute certainty.

Where the stress falls. “arguably” has 4 syllables, and the transcription /ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/ 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.

An unstressed vowel reduces to schwa. /ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/ contains a schwa /ə/ — the short, neutral “uh” that English unstressed syllables collapse into. Saying /ə/ there, instead of the vowel the spelling suggests, is most of what makes the word sound native.

What does "arguably" mean?

arguably (adverb): As can be supported or proven by sound logical deduction, evidence, and precedent, but without absolute certainty.

How do you pronounce "arguably" in American vs British English?

American English: /ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/. British English: /ˈɑːɡjuəbli/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.

What is the IPA transcription of "arguably"?

/ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/ in American English, /ˈɑːɡjuəbli/ in British English.

Which syllable is stressed in "arguably"?

“arguably” has 4 syllables, and the transcription /ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/ 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.