How to Pronounce “déjà vu”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ˌdeɪʒɑː ˈvuː/
- British (UK)
- /ˌdeɪʒæ ˈvuː/
What “déjà vu” means
noun — The subjective, unexpected feeling of having experienced something before, especially when that is not the case.
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “déjà vu” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ˌdeɪʒɑː ˈvuː/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the third one — so the third syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "déjà vu" mean?
déjà vu (noun): The subjective, unexpected feeling of having experienced something before, especially when that is not the case.
How do you pronounce "déjà vu" in American vs British English?
American English: /ˌdeɪʒɑː ˈvuː/. British English: /ˌdeɪʒæ ˈvuː/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "déjà vu"?
/ˌdeɪʒɑː ˈvuː/ in American English, /ˌdeɪʒæ ˈvuː/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "déjà vu"?
“déjà vu” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ˌdeɪʒɑː ˈvuː/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the third one — so the third syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
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