How to Pronounce Compulsive

To pronounce "compulsive", say COMP-uls-iv-e — 4 syllables, IPA /kəmˈpʌlsɪv/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

compulsive

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Accent

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4

Syllables

10

Letters

/kəmˈpʌlsɪv/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “compulsive”

"compulsive" has 4 syllables: comp-uls-iv-e. It rhymes with impulsive and repulsive, if that helps it stick.

What does compulsive mean?

noun

  1. One who exhibits compulsive behaviours.

adjective

  1. Uncontrolled or reactive and irresistible.
  2. Having power to compel; exercising or applying compulsion.

Hear “compulsive” 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 compulsive

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

impulsiverepulsiveconvulsivepulsive

Related words

drivenambitiousdeterminedneuroticpsychoneuroticobsessivecompellingheavy

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "compulsive"?▾

"Compulsive" has 4 syllables: comp · uls · iv · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "compulsive"?▾

The IPA transcription of "compulsive" is /kəmˈpʌlsɪv/.

What does "compulsive" mean?▾

Compulsive: One who exhibits compulsive behaviours.

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