English pronunciation · Words Starting with B
Before Pronunciation
Before is pronounced bi-FAWR, IPA /ˌbiˈfɔr/.
bi-FAWR
US /ˌbiˈfɔr/ · UK /bɪˈfɔː/
Syllables: bi · FAWR (2 syllables, stress on syllable 2)
preposition, conjunction, and adverb: Earlier than something, or in front of something.
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Before in a Sentence
- Call me before you leave.
- She stood before the committee for an hour.
- I have been here before.
Common Mispronunciations of Before
Not BEE-for
The opening syllable is a quick bi, not a long bee. All the weight goes to FAWR at the end.
Not bi-FOH
American speech sounds the r at the end, as in four. British speakers drop it, giving bi-FAW, with the vowel lengthened instead.
Tip: Two syllables, bi-FAWR. The second half is the word for.
More words starting with b · Every word in the pronunciation guide