How to Pronounce Relief

To pronounce "relief", say REL-ief — 2 syllables, IPA /ɹɪˈliːf/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

relief

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

Practice: Record & Compare

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Syllables

Letters

/ɹɪˈliːf/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “relief”

"relief" has 2 syllables: rel-ief. It rhymes with grief and motif, if that helps it stick.

What does relief mean?

noun

The removal of stress or discomfort.
“I sighed with relief when I found out that my daughter hadn't got lost, but was waiting for me at home.”
The feeling associated with the removal of stress or discomfort.

Synonyms

alleviation ease liss backup fill-in stand-in substitute

Hear “relief” 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 relief

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

grief motif brief belief lief disbelief beef reef sheaf leitmotif fief leaf

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "relief"?▾

"Relief" has 2 syllables: rel · ief.

What is the IPA transcription of "relief"?▾

The IPA transcription of "relief" is /ɹɪˈliːf/.

What does "relief" mean?▾

Relief: The removal of stress or discomfort.

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