How to Pronounce Primitive

"Primitive" is not spelled the way it sounds. Its pronunciation is /ˈpɹɪmətɪv/ in IPA and it has 3 syllables. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents — the audio is the reliable guide for a word like this.

primitive

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Accent

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈpɹɪmətɪv/

🇺🇸 IPA (US)

/pɹˈɪmɪtˌɪv/

🇬🇧 IPA (UK)

💡 Tip for remembering “primitive”

"primitive" has 3 syllables: primitive.

What does primitive mean?

noun

An original or primary word; a word not derived from another, as opposed to derivative.
A member of a primitive society.

adjective

Of or pertaining to the beginning or origin, or to early times; original; primordial; primeval; first.
Of or pertaining to or harking back to a former time; old-fashioned; characterized by simplicity.

Keep practicing

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Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "primitive"?▾

How many syllables are in "primitive"?▾

"Primitive" has 3 syllables.

What is the IPA transcription of "primitive"?▾

The IPA transcription of "primitive" is /ˈpɹɪmətɪv/.

What does "primitive" mean?▾

Primitive: An original or primary word; a word not derived from another, as opposed to derivative.

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