How to Pronounce Finesse

To pronounce "finesse", say FIN-ess-e — 3 syllables, IPA /fɨ-/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

finesse

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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3

Syllables

7

Letters

/fɨ-/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “finesse”

"finesse" has 3 syllables: fin-ess-e. It rhymes with nonetheless and nevertheless, if that helps it stick.

What does finesse mean?

noun

  1. Skill in the handling or manipulation of a situation.
  2. The property of having elegance, grace, refinement, or skill.

verb

  1. To evade (a problem, situation, etc.) by using some clever argument or strategem.
  2. To play (a card) as a finesse.

Synonyms

finessingzhoosh

Words that rhyme with finesse

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

nonethelessneverthelesscoalescedistressacquiesceaddresscaressassessprocessegressexpresspossess

Related words

delicacydiscreetnessdiplomacysubtletyfinenesssophisticationacumentact

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "finesse"?▾

"Finesse" has 3 syllables: fin · ess · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "finesse"?▾

The IPA transcription of "finesse" is /fɨ-/.

What does "finesse" mean?▾

Finesse: Skill in the handling or manipulation of a situation.

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