Learn How to Pronounce distance

Not sure how to say a word? Try the Promova pronunciation tool for free and learn how to pronounce anything in English correctly. Discover over 100,000 words and easily learn English pronunciation online!

Find your word:

Try:

Find how to pronounce a word and practice it in our free word pronouncer for English learners!

How to pronounce:

Listen to the pronunciation:

distance

Definition:

(nou) the property created by the space between two objects or points (nou) a distant region (nou) size of the gap between two places (nou) indifference by personal withdrawal (nou) the interval between two times (nou) a remote point in time

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈdɪstəns

Examples:

The length of the altitude is the distance between the base and the vertex.

The whole of the Roman Empire stretched away into the far distance.

One centimeter on the map represents one kilometer of distance on the ground.

Learn more about:

distance

Related Words:

How to perfect your pronunciation of: distance

Learn Individual Sounds

Break distance down into individual sounds such as ˈdɪstəns. Practice these parts before you learn to say the whole word.

Copy Others

Use the tools above to find out how different people say distance in their accents, then try to repeat after them.

Pick an Accent

Avoid mixing word pronunciations. If you’re learning American English, stick to it and try not to confuse yourself with British pronunciation.

Record Yourself

Say distance in the pronunciation tool as many times as it takes before you get it right. Record yourself saying different sentences with distance.

Get a Native Tutor

Improve your pronunciation with native speakers! Practice with American, British, and Australian teachers on Promova.

Common mistakes of distance pronunciation

  1. Misplacing the stress: Some learners put stress on the second syllable, saying "dis-TANCE" instead of "DIS-tance" (/ˈdɪs.təns/ in US and /ˈdɪs.təns/ in UK). Tip: Always emphasize the first syllable for correct pronunciation.
  2. Overemphasizing the "t": A common error is pronouncing the "t" too strongly, resulting in a harsh sound. The correct pronunciation is softer, as in "DIS-tance" (/ˈdɪs.təns/). Tip: Relax your tongue when saying the "t".
  3. Dropping the vowel sound: Some may omit the schwa sound in the second syllable, saying "DIS-tans" instead of "DIS-tance". The correct form includes the schwa /ə/. Tip: Practice saying the full syllable to maintain clarity.
  4. Incorrect vowel sounds: Learners might confuse the vowel sounds, pronouncing it as "dɪs-tənts" instead of "dɪs-təns". This changes the meaning and can lead to misunderstandings. Tip: Focus on the short "a" sound in the second syllable.
  5. Adding an extra syllable: Some might say "dis-tan-ce" as if it has three syllables instead of two. The correct pronunciation is two syllables: "DIS-tance" (/ˈdɪs.təns/). Tip: Count the syllables; it should only be two.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "distance" in American English?

In American English, "distance" is pronounced as /ˈdɪs.təns/. The first syllable has primary stress, and the "i" sounds like "ih" as in "sit."

What is the British pronunciation of "distance"?

In British English, "distance" is pronounced the same way as in American English: /ˈdɪs.təns/. The stress remains on the first syllable, and the vowel sounds are similar.

How many syllables are in the word "distance"?

The word "distance" has two syllables: "dis" and "tance." The first syllable is stressed, making it stand out when you say the word.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "distance"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, such as saying "DIS-tance" instead of "dis-TANCE." Remember to emphasize the first syllable for correct pronunciation.
Improve your pronunciation with a convenient app anywhere, anytime