"Receipt" is a word you'll use often—at stores, restaurants, and for expenses. But that "P" hiding in the middle? Completely silent! Let's get this right.
The Correct Pronunciation
Say it like this: ri-SEET (2 syllables)
NOT: re-SEEPT ❌
NOT: REE-sipt ❌
The Silent "P"
The "P" in receipt is completely silent. You don't pronounce it at all!
Written: r-e-c-e-i-p-t
Spoken: ri-SEET
Why Is the P Silent?
"Receipt" comes from Latin "recepta" through Old French. The "P" was added later to make the spelling look more Latin, but the pronunciation stayed the same. This is called a "learned spelling"—scholars added letters to show word origins!
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- ri /rɪ/ - Short "i" sound, unstressed
- SEET /siːt/ - Like "seat." This is the stressed syllable.
Common Mistakes
Mistake #1: Pronouncing the P
❌ ri-SEEPT
✅ ri-SEET
Mistake #2: Stressing the first syllable
❌ REE-seet
✅ ri-SEET (stress on second syllable)
Words with Silent P
English has several words where "P" is silent:
Related Words
Common Phrases
Practice these everyday sentences:
- "Can I have a receipt, please?"
- "Keep your receipt for returns."
- "I lost my receipt."
- "Do you need the receipt?"
- "I'll email you the receipt."
Memory Trick
Think: The P is asleep in receipt! 💤
Or: Receipt rhymes with seat (no P sound in either!)
Key Takeaways
- Pronounce it ri-SEET (2 syllables)
- The "P" is completely silent
- Stress the second syllable
- Rhymes with "seat," "beat," "feat"
- Same pattern as receive, deceive, perceive
Now you can confidently ask for a receipt!