How to Pronounce Intense

To pronounce "intense", say INT-ens-e — 3 syllables, IPA /ɪnˈtɛns/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

intense

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ɪnˈtɛns/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “intense”

"intense" has 3 syllables: int-ens-e. It rhymes with pretense and sense, if that helps it stick.

What does intense mean?

adjective

Strained; tightly drawn.
Strict, very close or earnest.
“intense study; intense thought”

Hear “intense” 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 intense

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

pretense sense dense recompense immense tense commence fence thence incense dispense offense

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "intense"?▾

"Intense" has 3 syllables: int · ens · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "intense"?▾

The IPA transcription of "intense" is /ɪnˈtɛns/.

What does "intense" mean?▾

Intense: Strained; tightly drawn.

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