How to Pronounce Motif

To pronounce "motif", say MOT-if — 2 syllables, IPA /moʊˈtiːf/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

motif

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

5

Letters

/moʊˈtiːf/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “motif”

"motif" has 2 syllables: mot-if. It rhymes with grief and brief, if that helps it stick.

What does motif mean?

noun

  1. A recurring or dominant element; a theme.

    “See how the artist repeats the scroll motif throughout the work?”

  2. A short melodic passage that is repeated in several parts of a work.

Words that rhyme with motif

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

griefbriefbeliefreliefliefdisbeliefbeefreefsheafleitmotiffiefleaf

Related words

thememotiveleitmotivleitmotifpatternrationalepurposebasis

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "motif"?▾

"Motif" has 2 syllables: mot · if.

What is the IPA transcription of "motif"?▾

The IPA transcription of "motif" is /moʊˈtiːf/.

What does "motif" mean?▾

Motif: A recurring or dominant element; a theme.

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