How to Pronounce "oriental"
word
/ˌɔɹiˈɛnəɫ/
or-ee-EN-tuhl
/ˌɔːɹɪˈɛntəl/
aw-ree-EN-tuhl
Definition
Refers to things, people, or cultures from East Asia or the Far East, such as China, Japan, or Korea. In modern English, its use to describe people is considered outdated and sometimes offensive; 'Asian' is preferred.
IPA Transcription
American English
/ˌɔɹiˈɛnəɫ/
British English
/ˌɔːɹɪˈɛntəl/
Simplified Pronunciation
US
or-ee-EN-tuhl
UK
aw-ree-EN-tuhl
Listen in Context
He bought an oriental rug for his living room.
This restaurant serves oriental food.
She is interested in oriental art and history.
Some people find the word 'oriental' outdated or even offensive.