English pronunciation · Words Starting with O
Optional Pronunciation
Optional is pronounced AHP-shuh-nuhl, IPA /ˈɑpʃənəl/.
AHP-shuh-nuhl
US /ˈɑpʃənəl/ · UK /ˈɒpʃənəl/
Syllables: AHP · shuh · nuhl (3 syllables, stress on syllable 1)
adjective: Available if you want it but not required.
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Optional in a Sentence
- Breakfast is optional, so come down whenever you like.
- The sunroof was an optional extra on that model.
- Attendance at the Friday session is optional for part-time staff.
Common Mispronunciations of Optional
Not ahp-SHUH-nuhl
Optional borrows its rhythm straight from option, so AHP keeps the load and the three beats behind it coast along.
Not AHP-shuh-nal
No full vowel survives in those last two letters, so the word closes on a weak nuhl rather than on the word Al.
Tip: Four beats, AHP-shuh-nuhl, and optionally simply adds a fifth without disturbing anything.
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