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How to Pronounce “often”

Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.

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American (US)
/ˈɔːfn/
British (UK)
/ˈɒfn/
Australian (AU)
/ˈɒfən/

adverb — Many times; frequently.

Example: He often walks to work when the weather is good.

Synonyms: frequently, regularly

Antonyms: rarely, seldom

The t is usually silent. The t between s/f and the final -en is normally dropped, so “often” is said without a /t/. (In “often” specifically, a spelling pronunciation with the t is also widely accepted.)

What does "often" mean?

often (adverb): Many times; frequently. For example — He often walks to work when the weather is good.

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

American English: /ˈɔːfn/. British English: /ˈɒfn/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.

What is the IPA transcription of "often"?

/ˈɔːfn/ in American English, /ˈɒfn/ in British English, /ˈɒfən/ in Australian English.

Silent T — Listen, Castle, Often, Christmas and the -stle Rule

The t that vanishes after s in listen, castle and whistle, the one-offs Christmas, soften and mortgage, the French silent t of ballet, and the famous often debate.

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