How do you pronounce "theory"?

In American English: /ˈθɪri/ (THIR-ee). In British English: /θˈɪəɹi/ (TH-i-uhr). In Canadian English: /ˈθɪri/ (THIR-ee). In Australian English: /θˈiəɹi/ (TH-ee-uhr).

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

Yes. In American English it's pronounced /ˈθɪri/ (THIR-ee), while in British English it's /θˈɪəɹi/ (TH-i-uhr).

How to Pronounce "theory"

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theory

regional

/ˈθɪri/

THIR-ee

Syllable Breakdown

θɪrthe·iory

Source

90%confidence📘 CMU Pronouncing Dictionary v0.7b

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Last updated: 2026-02-14