Skip to content

How to Pronounce “though”

Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.

▶ Hear it pronounced
American (US)
/ðoʊ/
British (UK)
/ðəʊ/

adverb — Despite that; however.

Example: I'm not paid to do all this paperwork for you. I will do it this once, though.

The -ough trap. -ough is the least predictable spelling in English: the same four letters cover at least six different pronunciations (through, though, thought, tough, plough, thorough). The spelling of “though” tells you almost nothing — learn this one by ear.

What does "though" mean?

though (adverb): Despite that; however. For example — I'm not paid to do all this paperwork for you. I will do it this once, though.

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

American English: /ðoʊ/. British English: /ðəʊ/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.

What is the IPA transcription of "though"?

/ðoʊ/ in American English, /ðəʊ/ in British English.

Chunking and Pausing in English — Where to Pause When Speaking

Fluency is where you pause, not how fast you speak. Thought groups, pause placement, why pausing changes meaning — and the drills that train it.

Ough Words — All the Pronunciations of ough, With Audio

The same four letters are pronounced at least six different ways. The sound families for through, though, tough, cough, plough, borough and more, each with audio.

Browse the full word index or use the pronunciation tool.