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How to Pronounce “nuance”

Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.

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American (US)
/ˈnuːɑːns/
British (UK)
/ˈnjuːɒns/
Australian (AU)
/ˈnjʉː.ɐːns/

noun — A subtle difference in meaning, expression or sound.

Example: The translation lost every nuance of the original.

Synonyms: subtlety, shade

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

Where the stress falls. “nuance” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /ˈnuːɑːns/ 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 "nuance" mean?

nuance (noun): A subtle difference in meaning, expression or sound. For example — The translation lost every nuance of the original.

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

American English: /ˈnuːɑːns/. British English: /ˈnjuːɒns/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.

What is the IPA transcription of "nuance"?

/ˈnuːɑːns/ in American English, /ˈnjuːɒns/ in British English, /ˈnjʉː.ɐːns/ in Australian English.

Which syllable is stressed in "nuance"?

“nuance” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /ˈnuːɑːns/ 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.

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