English pronunciation · Words Starting with M

Matter Pronunciation

Matter is pronounced MA-ter, IPA /ˈmætɝ/.

MA-ter

US /ˈmætɝ/  ·  UK /ˈmætə/

Syllables: MA · ter (2 syllables, stress on syllable 1)

noun and verb: A subject or situation being dealt with, the physical substance of things, or to be important.

Audio for the American and British pronunciations plays on this page with JavaScript enabled.

Matter in a Sentence

  • The matter was settled out of court.
  • It does not matter which one you take.
  • Dark matter makes up most of the universe.

Common Mispronunciations of Matter

Not muh-TER

The doubled t keeps the first vowel short and the weight on it, as happens in batter and latter.

Not MA-chur

No ch belongs in the middle. Mature turns its t that way and this word does not.

Tip: American speakers soften the middle t to a quick d, giving something near MA-der, while British speakers keep it sharp.

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