How to Pronounce Purpose

"Purpose" is not spelled the way it sounds. Its pronunciation is /ˈpɝpəs/ in IPA and it has 2 syllables. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents — the audio is the reliable guide for a word like this.

purpose

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Accent

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2

Syllables

7

Letters

/ˈpɝpəs/

🇺🇸 IPA (US)

/pˈɜːpəs/

🇬🇧 IPA (UK)

💡 Tip for remembering “purpose”

"purpose" has 2 syllables: purpose.

What does purpose mean?

noun

  1. The end for which something is done, is made or exists.
  2. Function, role.

verb

  1. To have or set as one's purpose or aim; resolve to accomplish; intend; plan.
  2. To have (an) intention, purpose, or design; to intend; to mean.

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Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "purpose"?▾

"Purpose" is not spelled the way it sounds. Its pronunciation is /ˈpɝpəs/ in IPA and it has 2 syllables. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents — the audio is the reliable guide for a word like this.

How many syllables are in "purpose"?▾

"Purpose" has 2 syllables.

What is the IPA transcription of "purpose"?▾

The IPA transcription of "purpose" is /ˈpɝpəs/.

What does "purpose" mean?▾

Purpose: The end for which something is done, is made or exists.

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