How to Pronounce Epitome: It's eh-PIT-uh-mee, Not EH-pi-tohm

"Epitome" is a classic example of a word that trips up people who read more than they listen. If you've been saying "EH-pi-tohm" (rhyming with "home"), you're not alone—but it's time to learn the correct 4-syllable pronunciation!

The Correct Pronunciation

Say it like this: eh-PIT-uh-mee (4 syllables)

NOT: EH-pi-tohm (3 syllables, rhyming with "home") ❌

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. eh /ɪ/ - Short, unstressed "i" sound (like "it")
2. PIT /ˈpɪt/ - Like the word "pit." This is the STRESSED syllable.
3. uh /ə/ - Quick schwa sound
4. mee /mi/ - Like "me"

The key: stress the SECOND syllable (PIT), and pronounce the final "e" as "ee."

Why Is the Final "E" Pronounced?

"Epitome" comes from Greek "epitomē" (ἐπιτομή). In Greek-origin words ending in "-ome" or "-ome," the final "e" is often pronounced:

• epitome = eh-PIT-uh-mee
• hyperbole = hy-PER-buh-lee
• catastrophe = kuh-TAS-truh-fee
• anemone = uh-NEM-uh-nee

This is different from words like "home," "dome," or "chrome" where the "e" is silent.

Common Mistakes

Mistake #1: Making it 3 syllables

❌ EH-pi-tohm
✅ eh-PIT-uh-mee (4 syllables)

Mistake #2: Rhyming with "home"

❌ ep-ih-TOHM
✅ eh-PIT-uh-mee (ends in "mee")

Mistake #3: Stressing the first syllable

❌ EH-pit-uh-mee
✅ eh-PIT-uh-mee (stress on second syllable)

Similar Greek Words with Pronounced Final "E"

More Words Ending in Pronounced "-ee"

How to Use "Epitome" in Sentences

"Epitome" means "a perfect example of" something. Practice with these:

1. "He is the epitome of a gentleman."
2. "This dish is the epitome of comfort food."
3. "She became the epitome of success."
4. "That movie is the epitome of the 80s."

Memory Trick

Think: "eh-PIT-of-ME" (it's the pit of me = the core example)

Or remember: It rhymes with "a bit of me" → eh-PIT-uh-mee

Key Takeaways

• Pronounce it eh-PIT-uh-mee (4 syllables)
• Stress the second syllable (PIT)
• The final "e" is pronounced as "ee" (Greek origin)
• Does NOT rhyme with "home"
• Same pattern: hyperbole, catastrophe, anemone

Now you can use "epitome" confidently in conversations—you'll be the epitome of excellent pronunciation!