How do you pronounce "lieutenant"?

In American English: /luːˈtɛnənt/ (loo-TEN-unt). In British English: /lɛfˈtɛnənt/ (lef-TEN-unt). In Canadian English: /luːˈtɛnənt/ (loo-TEN-unt). In Australian English: /lɛfˈtɛnənt/ (lef-TEN-unt).

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

Yes. In American English it's pronounced /luːˈtɛnənt/ (loo-TEN-unt), while in British English it's /lɛfˈtɛnənt/ (lef-TEN-unt).

How to Pronounce "lieutenant"

lieutenant

noun

regional

/luːˈtɛnənt/

loo-TEN-unt

Syllable Breakdown

luːlieu·tɛnten·əntant

Source

95%confidence📘 CMU Pronouncing Dictionary v0.7b

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Example

“The lieutenant reported directly to the captain.”

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Last updated: 2025-01-15