How to Pronounce accept vs except
Key Pronunciation Contrast
‘Accept’ starts with an open ⁄æk⁄ or ⁄ək⁄ sound meaning to receive, while ‘except’ begins with ⁄ɪk⁄ meaning to exclude.
Contrast: Initial syllable: ⁄ækˈsɛpt⁄ vs ⁄ɪkˈsɛpt⁄
accept
⁄ækˈsɛpt⁄
ac·CEPT
To receive, especially with a consent, with favour, or with approval.
except
⁄ɪkˈsɛpt⁄
ex·CEPT
To exclude; to specify as being an exception.
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80 total video examplesFrequently Asked Questions: accept vs except
What is the difference in pronunciation between "accept" and "except"?
‘Accept’ starts with an open ⁄æk⁄ or ⁄ək⁄ sound meaning to receive, while ‘except’ begins with ⁄ɪk⁄ meaning to exclude.
Where does the syllable stress fall in "accept" vs "except"?
"accept" has 2 syllable(s) (ac · cept) with stress on "CEPT". "except" has 2 syllable(s) (ex · cept) with stress on "CEPT".
Why do English learners often confuse "accept" and "except"?
Learners frequently confuse them due to the close sound contrast: Initial syllable: ⁄ækˈsɛpt⁄ vs ⁄ɪkˈsɛpt⁄. In rapid spoken English, context and vowel duration are the primary differentiators.
What are example sentences for "accept" and "except"?
Example for "accept": "Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice." Example for "except": "I find most people annoying — present company excepted, of course!"