How do you pronounce "essay"?

In American English: /ɛˈseɪ/ (eh-SAY). In British English: /ˈɛseɪ/ (EHS-ay). In Canadian English: /ɛˈseɪ/ (eh-SAY). In Australian English: /ˈɛseɪ/ (EHS-ay).

Is "essay" pronounced differently in American and British English?

Yes. In American English it's pronounced /ɛˈseɪ/ (eh-SAY), while in British English it's /ˈɛseɪ/ (EHS-ay).

How to Pronounce "essay"

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essay

disputed

/ɛˈseɪ/

eh-SAY

Syllable Breakdown

ɛes·seɪsay

Source

80%confidence📘 CMU Pronouncing Dictionary v0.7b

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Last updated: 2026-02-14