How to Pronounce "is rotten in denmark"
expression
IZ RAW-tuhn in DEN-mark
IZ ROT-uhn in DEN-mahk
Definition
This expression means that something is wrong or suspicious, even if it is not obvious. It comes from Shakespeare's play Hamlet and is used when people think something bad or dishonest is happening.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈɪz/, /ɪz/ /ˈɹɑtən/ /ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /ˈdɛnˌmɑɹk
British English
ˈɪz/ /ɹˈɒtən/ /ˈɪn/ /ˈdɛnˌmɑːk
Simplified Pronunciation
US
IZ RAW-tuhn in DEN-mark
UK
IZ ROT-uhn in DEN-mahk
Listen in Context
The company’s finances look fine, but I think something is rotten in Denmark.
Whenever rules suddenly change, I suspect something is rotten in Denmark.
When employees leave so quickly, you know something is rotten in Denmark.
I can’t say for sure, but something is rotten in Denmark about this deal.