How to Pronounce “express”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ɪkˈspɹɛs/
- British (UK)
- /ɪkˈspɹɛs/
What “express” means
adjective — Moving or operating quickly, as a train not making local stops.
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “express” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /ɪkˈspɹɛs/ 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 "express" mean?
express (adjective): Moving or operating quickly, as a train not making local stops.
How do you pronounce "express" in American vs British English?
Both accents use the same sequence of phonemes for "express", /ɪkˈspɹɛs/, 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 "express"?
/ɪkˈspɹɛs/ in American English, /ɪkˈspɹɛs/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "express"?
“express” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /ɪkˈspɹɛs/ 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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