Learn How to Pronounce past
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:
Find how to pronounce a word and practice it in our free word pronouncer for English learners!
How to pronounce:
past
Definition:
(nou) the time that has elapsed (nou) a earlier period in someone's life (especially one that they have reason to keep secret) (nou) a verb tense that expresses actions or states in the past
Phonetic Transcription:
pɑːst
Examples:
It is a time to reminisce the past.
The cruelty of the old pharaoh is a thing of the past.
This will be a time of repentance for the sins of the past.
Learn more about:past
Related Words:
How to perfect your pronunciation of: past
Learn Individual Sounds
Break past down into individual sounds such as pɑːst. Practice these parts before you learn to say the whole word.
Copy Others
Use the tools above to find out how different people say past 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 past in the pronunciation tool as many times as it takes before you get it right. Record yourself saying different sentences with past.
Get a Native Tutor
Improve your pronunciation with native speakers! Practice with American, British, and Australian teachers on Promova.
Common mistakes of past pronunciation
- Misplacing the vowel sound: Some learners pronounce "past" as /peɪst/ instead of /pæst/ (US) or /pɑːst/ (UK). This alters the meaning. Tip: Focus on the short "a" sound in "past."
- Ignoring the final "t": Many speakers drop the "t" sound, saying /pæs/ instead of /pæst/ (US) or /pɑːst/. This can lead to misunderstandings. Tip: Practice emphasizing the "t" at the end of "past."
- Confusing with "passed": Some confuse "past" with "passed," pronouncing both the same. "Passed" is pronounced /pæst/ (US) or /pɑːst/ (UK) but is a different word. Tip: Remember that "past" refers to time, while "passed" is a verb.
- Overemphasizing the "p": Learners might pronounce "past" with an exaggerated "p," sounding like /pæst/ with a strong puff of air. This can be distracting. Tip: Keep the "p" soft and natural when saying "past."
- Mixing up stress patterns: Some may incorrectly stress "past" as /ˈpæst/ (US) or /ˈpɑːst/ (UK), which can sound unnatural. Tip: "Past" is a single-syllable word, so keep the stress consistent and straightforward.