How to Pronounce "essay"

word

/ˈɛˌseɪ/, /ɛˈseɪ/

ES-ay, e-SAY

/ˈɛˌseɪ/, /ɛˈseɪ/

ES-ay, e-SAY

Definition

An essay is a short piece of writing about a particular topic, often written for school, a test, or publication. It usually presents the writer’s ideas, explanation, or argument in an organized way.

IPA Transcription

American English

/ˈɛˌseɪ/, /ɛˈseɪ/

British English

/ˈɛˌseɪ/, /ɛˈseɪ/

Simplified Pronunciation

ES-ay, e-SAY

Listen in Context

I have to write an essay for history class.

Her essay was about climate change.

The teacher gave us an essay question.

I stayed up late trying to finish my essay.