How to Pronounce “nuance”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ˈnuːɑːns/
- British (UK)
- /ˈnjuːɒns/
- Australian (AU)
- /ˈnjʉː.ɐːns/
What “nuance” means
noun — A subtle difference in meaning, expression or sound.
Example: The translation lost every nuance of the original.
Synonyms: subtlety, shade
Pronunciation Notes
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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