How to Pronounce Time-out

To pronounce "time-out", say TIM-eout — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈtaɪm.aʊt/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

time-out

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈtaɪm.aʊt/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “time-out”

"time-out" has 2 syllables: tim-eout.

What does time-out mean?

noun

  1. A short break in the action of a sport, for substitution, consultation, etc.

    “We're being beaten! We need a time-out!”

  2. A break from a tense, heated or stressful situation (often enforced, sometimes as a disciplinary measure); a cooling-off period.

    “Hitting people is not acceptable! Go to your room and take a time-out!”

Hear “time-out” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Related words

holdtimeoutbreakcornerpunishmentrecessstandbywaiting

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "time-out"?▾

"Time-out" has 2 syllables: tim · eout.

What is the IPA transcription of "time-out"?▾

The IPA transcription of "time-out" is /ˈtaɪm.aʊt/.

What does "time-out" mean?▾

Time-out: A short break in the action of a sport, for substitution, consultation, etc.

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