"Mischievous" is one of the most commonly mispronounced words in English—and not just by non-native speakers! Many people add an extra syllable that doesn't exist. Let's set the record straight.
The Correct Pronunciation
Say it like this: MIS-chuh-vus (3 syllables)
NOT: mis-CHEEV-ee-us (4 syllables) ❌
The Common Mistake
Many people pronounce this word as "mis-CHEEV-ee-us" with 4 syllables. This mistake is so common that some dictionaries list it as an alternate pronunciation—but it's technically incorrect.
The confusion comes from:
- The related word "mischief" which has an "ie" that looks like "ee"
- Words like "devious" that DO have 4 syllables
- A nonstandard spelling "mischievious" that sometimes appears
But look at the correct spelling: mischiev-ous—there's no "i" after the "v"!
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- MIS /mɪs/ - Like "miss." This is the STRESSED syllable.
- chuh /tʃɪ/ - Like the start of "chip" but softer
- vus /vəs/ - Like "vus" in "nervous"
Think of it as: MIS + chuh + vus = mischievous
Common Mistakes
Mistake #1: Adding a 4th syllable
❌ mis-CHEEV-ee-us
✅ MIS-chuh-vus
Mistake #2: Stressing the wrong syllable
❌ mis-CHEE-vus
✅ MIS-chuh-vus (stress on FIRST syllable)
Mistake #3: Pronouncing it like "mischief" + "ous"
❌ MIS-cheef-us
✅ MIS-chuh-vus (the "ie" doesn't sound like "ee")
Compare with Related Words
Similar "-ous" Words (Also 3 Syllables)
These words follow the same pattern:
Words That DO Have 4 Syllables
Don't confuse "mischievous" with these similar-looking words that actually have 4 syllables:
Quick Practice
Say these sentences aloud:
- "The mischievous puppy chewed my shoes."
- "She has a mischievous sense of humor."
- "Stop being so mischievous!"
- "He looked at me with mischievous eyes."
Memory Trick
Count the syllables in the spelling: mis-chie-vous = 3 parts = 3 syllables
Or remember: There's no "I" in mischievOUS (after the V) = no extra syllable!
Key Takeaways
- Only 3 syllables: MIS-chuh-vus
- Stress the first syllable
- There is NO "ee" sound before the final syllable
- Check the spelling: mischievous, NOT mischievious
- Same pattern as grievous, previous, obvious
Now you can correctly pronounce this commonly mispronounced word—and maybe even (mischievously) correct others who get it wrong!