How to Pronounce “discreet”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /dɪˈskɹiːt/
- British (UK)
- /dɪˈskɹiːt/
What “discreet” means
adjective — Respectful of privacy or secrecy; exercising caution in order to avoid causing embarrassment; quiet; diplomatic.
Example: With a discreet gesture, she reminded him to mind his manners.
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “discreet” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /dɪˈskɹiːt/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the second one — so the second syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "discreet" mean?
discreet (adjective): Respectful of privacy or secrecy; exercising caution in order to avoid causing embarrassment; quiet; diplomatic. For example — With a discreet gesture, she reminded him to mind his manners.
How do you pronounce "discreet" in American vs British English?
Both accents use the same sequence of phonemes for "discreet", /dɪˈskɹiːt/, so the difference you hear is in how the vowels are coloured rather than in which sounds are used. Play both on this page to compare.
What is the IPA transcription of "discreet"?
/dɪˈskɹiːt/ in American English, /dɪˈskɹiːt/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "discreet"?
“discreet” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /dɪˈskɹiːt/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the second one — so the second syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
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