To pronounce "defensively", say DEF-ens-iv-ely — 4 syllables, IPA /dɪˈfɛnsɪvli/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.
defensively
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4
Syllables
11
Letters
/dɪˈfɛnsɪvli/
IPA
"defensively" has 4 syllables: def-ens-iv-ely. It rhymes with extensively and pensively, if that helps it stick.
adverb
Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.
"Defensively" has 4 syllables: def · ens · iv · ely.
The IPA transcription of "defensively" is /dɪˈfɛnsɪvli/.
Defensively: In a defensive manner.
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