English pronunciation · Words Starting with S

Safe Pronunciation

Safe is pronounced SAYF, IPA /ˈseɪf/.

SAYF

US /ˈseɪf/  ·  UK /ˈseɪf/

Syllables: SAYF (1 syllable)

adjective and noun: Free from danger or harm, and also a strong locked box for valuables.

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

Safe in a Sentence

  • The children are safe with their aunt.
  • Keep the passports in the hotel safe.
  • It is safe to cross once the light changes.

Common Mispronunciations of Safe

Not SAF

That a says its own letter name, which is why the word rhymes with chafe and waif.

Not SAYV

A hiss closes the word. Letting the voice run through the final sound gives the verb save instead.

Tip: The box you lock things in and the word meaning out of danger are spelled and said identically.

More words starting with s · Every word in the pronunciation guide