How to Pronounce Controversial

To pronounce "controversial", say contr-ov-ERS-ial — 4 syllables, IPA /ˌkɑntɹəˈvɝʃəɫ/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

controversial

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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4

Syllables

13

Letters

/ˌkɑntɹəˈvɝʃəɫ/

🇺🇸 IPA (US)

/kˌɒntɹəvˈɜːʃəl/

🇬🇧 IPA (UK)

💡 Tip for remembering “controversial”

Break "controversial" into 4 beats and lean on "ERS" — that's the stressed one.

What does controversial mean?

adjective

  1. Arousing controversy—a debate or discussion of opposing opinions.

Synonyms

contentiouscontested

Antonyms

incontrovertiblenoncontroversialuncontroversial

Keep practicing

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Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "controversial"?▾

To pronounce "controversial", say contr-ov-ERS-ial — 4 syllables, IPA /ˌkɑntɹəˈvɝʃəɫ/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

How many syllables are in "controversial"?▾

"Controversial" has 4 syllables: contr · ov · ers · ial.

What is the IPA transcription of "controversial"?▾

The IPA transcription of "controversial" is /ˌkɑntɹəˈvɝʃəɫ/.

What does "controversial" mean?▾

Controversial: Arousing controversy—a debate or discussion of opposing opinions.

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