How to Pronounce “surprise”

American (US)

/sɚˈpɹaɪ̯z/

British (UK)

/sə(ː)ˈpɹaɪ̯z/

Australian (AU)

/sə(ː)ˈpɹɑ̟ɪ̯z/

noun — Something unexpected.

Example: It was a surprise to find out I owed twice as much as I thought.

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

Where the stress falls. “surprise” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /sɚˈpɹaɪ̯z/ 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.

What does "surprise" mean?

surprise (noun): Something unexpected. For example — It was a surprise to find out I owed twice as much as I thought.

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

American English: /sɚˈpɹaɪ̯z/. British English: /sə(ː)ˈpɹaɪ̯z/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.

What is the IPA transcription of "surprise"?

/sɚˈpɹaɪ̯z/ in American English, /sə(ː)ˈpɹaɪ̯z/ in British English, /sə(ː)ˈpɹɑ̟ɪ̯z/ in Australian English.

Which syllable is stressed in "surprise"?

“surprise” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /sɚˈpɹaɪ̯z/ 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.