How to Pronounce Afraid

To pronounce "afraid", say AFR-aid — 2 syllables, IPA /əˈfɹeɪd/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

afraid

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/əˈfɹeɪd/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “afraid”

"afraid" has 2 syllables: afr-aid. It rhymes with dismayed and accolade, if that helps it stick.

What does afraid mean?

adjective

(usually used predicatively, not attributively, be afraid) Impressed with fear or apprehension; in fear.
“He is afraid of death.”
Regretful, sorry.
“I am afraid I cannot help you in this matter.”

Synonyms

afeared alarmed anxious apprehensive fearful timid timorous sorry

Hear “afraid” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with afraid

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

dismayed accolade renegade cascade staid charade jade escapade retrograde palisade evade pervade

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "afraid"?▾

"Afraid" has 2 syllables: afr · aid.

What is the IPA transcription of "afraid"?▾

The IPA transcription of "afraid" is /əˈfɹeɪd/.

What does "afraid" mean?▾

Afraid: (usually used predicatively, not attributively, be afraid) Impressed with fear or apprehension; in fear.

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