SIS-tuhmz
/ˈsɪstəmz/
systems is pronounced SIS-tuhmz (/ˈsɪstəmz/). Systems is a plural noun referring to organized sets of principles or procedures that govern how something operates. It denotes interconnected components designed to achieve stable, repeatable results within a broader framework. In practice, it often implies formalized methods that guide actions, decisions, and outcomes.
Systems is a plural noun referring to organized sets of principles or procedures that govern how something operates. It denotes interconnected components designed to achieve stable, repeatable results within a broader framework. In practice, it often implies formalized methods that guide actions, decisions, and outcomes.
"The company's quality control systems ensure consistent product performance."
"She updated the data management systems to improve security and speed."
"Educational systems vary widely between countries and regions."
Pronounce as /ˈsɪ.stəmz/ in general American and /ˈsɪs.təmz/ in careful speech. Put primary stress on the first syllable: SY-stems. The middle vowel is a schwa or a reduced /ə/ in many fast pronunciations, so you can hear /ˈsɪ.stəmz/ with a light, unstressed second syllable. End with a clear /z/ sound. If you drop the vowel in the second syllable, you’ll still be understood, but a fully rounded /-təm/ can sound more formal.
Common errors include over-enunciating the middle syllable as /ˈsɪs.tɛmz/ and adding an extra syllable like /ˈsɪs.tə.məz/. To correct: keep the middle vowel as a quick /ə/ (schwa) and attach the final /z/ directly to the preceding /m/, forming /-mz/. Another mistake is misplacing the primary stress later in the word; ensure the first syllable carries the main stress.
In US English, you’ll typically hear /ˈsɪ.stəmz/ with a strong first syllable and a reduced middle. UK English follows the same pattern but with a slightly crisper /t/ and a less realized final z in rapid speech. Australian English is similar to US but often features more centralized vowels and a slightly less rounded /ɒ/—but for 'systems' you still get /ˈsɪ.stəmz/ with a short, quick middle and clear final /z/.
Because it blends a stressed initial syllable, a fast, neutral ally in the middle (/ə/), and a voiceless-to-voiced consonant transition to /z/ at the end. The cluster /stəmz/ can invite a mispronunciation like /sɪsˈtɛmz/ or vowel insertion. Practice by isolating the three parts: /ˈsɪ/ + /stə/ + /mz/ and ensure the tongue shifts quickly to a relaxed mid position for the schwa before the final /m/ and /z/.
A unique aspect is the seamless link between the second and third consonants: /m/ followed directly by /z/. In careful speech you’ll hear /mz/ as a voiced cluster rather than two separate sounds. Keep your lips lightly closed through the /m/ and glide into the /z/ without a full vowel between. This ensures a natural, crisp ending that avoids a staccato or glottal stop before the /z/.
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Systems derives from the Greek word systema, meaning a whole composed of several interdependent parts. The term enters Latin as systema, then via late Latin and French into English in the 17th century, retaining the sense of an orderly arrangement of parts. The root system is from syn- 'together' and histanai 'to place' or a later related root meaning 'setting up' or 'arrangement.' Over time, 'system' broadened from mathematical or philosophical assemblies to everyday organizational contexts: biological systems (organs and regulatory networks), social systems (institutions and procedures), and technological systems (hardware and software interconnections). The plural form 'systems' appears naturally when discussing multiple interrelated sets or when indexing variations across domains. In modern usage, it commonly collocates with adjectives like 'information,' 'operating,' 'belief,' and 'environmental,' reflecting the wide application of orderly, rule-governed structures across fields.
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💡 These words have similar meanings to "systems" and can often be used interchangeably.
🔄 These words have opposite meanings to "systems" and show contrast in usage.
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Words that rhyme with "systems"
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