How to Pronounce “preliminary”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /pɹɪˈlɪmɪnɛɹi/
- British (UK)
- /pɹɪˈlɪmɪn(ə)ɹi/
What “preliminary” means
adjective — Coming before the main event and preparing for it.
Example: Preliminary results look encouraging.
Synonyms: initial, introductory
Antonyms: final
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “preliminary” has 5 syllables, and the transcription /pɹɪˈlɪmɪnɛɹi/ 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 "preliminary" mean?
preliminary (adjective): Coming before the main event and preparing for it. For example — Preliminary results look encouraging.
How do you pronounce "preliminary" in American vs British English?
American English: /pɹɪˈlɪmɪnɛɹi/. British English: /pɹɪˈlɪmɪn(ə)ɹi/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "preliminary"?
/pɹɪˈlɪmɪnɛɹi/ in American English, /pɹɪˈlɪmɪn(ə)ɹi/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "preliminary"?
“preliminary” has 5 syllables, and the transcription /pɹɪˈlɪmɪnɛɹi/ 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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