How to Pronounce Mandatory

To pronounce "mandatory", say MAND-at-ory — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈmæn.də.t(ə)ɹi/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

mandatory

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Accent

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Speed

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈmæn.də.t(ə)ɹi/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “mandatory”

"mandatory" has 3 syllables: mand-at-ory. It rhymes with repository and hoary, if that helps it stick.

What does mandatory mean?

noun

A sign or line that require the path of the disc to be above, below or to one side of it.
A person, organisation or state who receives a mandate; a mandatary.

adjective

Obligatory; required or commanded by authority.
“Attendance at a school is usually mandatory for children.”
Of, being or relating to a mandate.
“Mandatory Palestine”

Synonyms

mando compulsory obligatory

Antonyms

elective optional

Hear “mandatory” 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 mandatory

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

repository hoary quarry allegory desultory transitory ambulatory glory dilatory aleatory territory obligatory

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "mandatory"?▾

"Mandatory" has 3 syllables: mand · at · ory.

What is the IPA transcription of "mandatory"?▾

The IPA transcription of "mandatory" is /ˈmæn.də.t(ə)ɹi/.

What does "mandatory" mean?▾

Mandatory: A sign or line that require the path of the disc to be above, below or to one side of it.

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