How to Pronounce “exercise”

American (US)

/ˈɛk.sɚ.saɪz/

British (UK)

/ˈɛk.sə.saɪz/

Australian (AU)

/ˈek.sə.sɑez/

noun — Any activity designed to develop or hone a skill or ability.

Example: The teacher told us that the next exercise is to write an essay.

The final e is silent. The transcription /ˈɛk.sɚ.saɪz/ ends on a consonant sound, so the written e at the end of “exercise” is not pronounced.

Where the stress falls. “exercise” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ˈɛk.sɚ.saɪz/ 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.

What does "exercise" mean?

exercise (noun): Any activity designed to develop or hone a skill or ability. For example — The teacher told us that the next exercise is to write an essay.

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

American English: /ˈɛk.sɚ.saɪz/. British English: /ˈɛk.sə.saɪz/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.

What is the IPA transcription of "exercise"?

/ˈɛk.sɚ.saɪz/ in American English, /ˈɛk.sə.saɪz/ in British English, /ˈek.sə.sɑez/ in Australian English.

Which syllable is stressed in "exercise"?

“exercise” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ˈɛk.sɚ.saɪz/ 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.

Connected Speech Practice — Connected Speech Guide

Practical exercises for the three processes that reshape words in fluent English: linking, dropping sounds, and changing sounds to match their neighbours.

Teaching English Pronunciation — ESL Guide for Teachers

A practical framework for ESL teachers: what to teach, in what order, how to diagnose errors, and classroom activities that work.

How to Improve English Pronunciation — 10 Proven Methods

Ten research-backed methods for improving English pronunciation, from minimal pairs to shadowing native speakers, each with practice links and audio examples.