How to Pronounce Sentence

To pronounce "sentence", say SENT-enc-e — 3 syllables, IPA /[ˈsɛntn̩t͡s]/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

sentence

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Accent

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Syllables

Letters

/[ˈsɛntn̩t͡s]/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “sentence”

"sentence" has 3 syllables: sent-enc-e. It rhymes with repentance, if that helps it stick.

What does sentence mean?

noun

The decision or judgement of a jury or court; a verdict.
“The court returned a sentence of guilt in the first charge, but innocence in the second.”
The judicial order for a punishment to be imposed on a person convicted of a crime.
“The judge declared a sentence of death by hanging for the infamous cattle rustler.”

verb

To declare a sentence on a convicted person; to doom; to condemn to punishment.
“The judge sentenced the embezzler to ten years in prison, along with a hefty fine.”
To decree or announce as a sentence.

Synonyms

conviction verdict

Hear “sentence” 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 sentence

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

repentance

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "sentence"?▾

"Sentence" has 3 syllables: sent · enc · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "sentence"?▾

The IPA transcription of "sentence" is /[ˈsɛntn̩t͡s]/.

What does "sentence" mean?▾

Sentence: The decision or judgement of a jury or court; a verdict.

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