How do you pronounce "purpose"?

In American English: /ˈpɝːpəs/ (PURP-uhs). In British English: /pˈɜːpəs/ (P-ɜp). In Canadian English: /ˈpɝːpəs/ (PURP-uhs). In Australian English: /pˈɜːpəs/ (P-ɜp).

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

Yes. In American English it's pronounced /ˈpɝːpəs/ (PURP-uhs), while in British English it's /pˈɜːpəs/ (P-ɜp).

How to Pronounce "purpose"

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purpose

regional

/ˈpɝːpəs/

PURP-uhs

Syllable Breakdown

pɝːppur·əspose

Source

90%confidence📘 CMU Pronouncing Dictionary v0.7b

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Last updated: 2026-02-14