How to Pronounce Expensive

To pronounce "expensive", say EXP-ens-iv-e — 4 syllables, IPA /ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

expensive

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/

🇺🇸 IPA (US)

/ɛkspˈɛnsɪv/

🇬🇧 IPA (UK)

💡 Tip for remembering “expensive”

"expensive" has 4 syllables: exp-ens-iv-e. It rhymes with apprehensive and pensive, if that helps it stick.

What does expensive mean?

adjective

Given to expending a lot of money; profligate, lavish.
Having a high price or cost.

Antonyms

cheap inexpensive low-priced

Hear “expensive” 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 expensive

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

apprehensive pensive comprehensive extensive offensive intensive defensive inoffensive inexpensive tensive counteroffensive hypertensive

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "expensive"?▾

"Expensive" has 4 syllables: exp · ens · iv · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "expensive"?▾

The IPA transcription of "expensive" is /ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/.

What does "expensive" mean?▾

Expensive: Given to expending a lot of money; profligate, lavish.

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