How to Pronounce Counsel

To pronounce "counsel", say COUNS-el — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈkaʊn.səl/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

counsel

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

7

Letters

/ˈkaʊn.səl/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “counsel”

"counsel" has 2 syllables: couns-el. It rhymes with counsell and council, if that helps it stick.

Sounds exactly like: counsell, council — easy to mix up when writing.

What does counsel mean?

noun

  1. The exchange of opinions and advice especially in legal issues; consultation.
  2. Exercise of judgment; prudence.

verb

  1. To give advice, especially professional advice, to (somebody).

    “Psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and other mental health professionals counsel clients.”

  2. To recommend (a course of action).

    “I would counsel prudence in this matter.”

Hear “counsel” 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 counsel

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

counsellcounciltownseltownsell

Related words

counselorcounselloradviseadvocateguidancedirectioncounselor-at-lawconsultant

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "counsel"?▾

"Counsel" has 2 syllables: couns · el.

What is the IPA transcription of "counsel"?▾

The IPA transcription of "counsel" is /ˈkaʊn.səl/.

What does "counsel" mean?▾

Counsel: The exchange of opinions and advice especially in legal issues; consultation.

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