TIP-ik-lee
/ˈtɪpɪkli/
typically is pronounced TIP-ik-lee (/ˈtɪpɪkli/). Typically means in most cases or in a way that is usual or expected. It describes something that occurs under ordinary conditions or according to a normal pattern, without special exceptions. In use, it often introduces a generalization about frequency or normal behavior, contrasted with atypical cases.
Typically means in most cases or in a way that is usual or expected. It describes something that occurs under ordinary conditions or according to a normal pattern, without special exceptions. In use, it often introduces a generalization about frequency or normal behavior, contrasted with atypical cases.
"Her schedule is typically busy on weekdays but slower on weekends."
"Dogs are typically loyal and trainable, though temperament varies."
"The product is typically priced around $50, with occasional discounts."
Typically is pronounced /ˈtɪpɪkli/ in US and UK English, with primary stress on the first syllable. Break it as TIP-ih-klee. The middle /ɪ/ is a short vowel; the /p/ is a released plosive, and the final /li/ is a light, unstressed syllable. You can listen to native pronunciation on Pronounce, Forvo, or YouGlish for context-rich examples.
Common mistakes include misplacing stress (say-PI-cally or tip-ACK-ly) and mispronouncing the middle syllable as a long or tense vowel. To correct: keep primary stress on /ˈtɪ/ and reduce /ɪ/ in the middle, producing a quicker transition to /kli/. Avoid adding extra syllables like /ˈtɪ-pɪ-CA-ly/; aim for TIP-ih-kl-ee with a light, quick final /i/ and /l/.
In US English, you’ll hear a clear /ˈtɪ.pɪ.kli/ with slightly stronger final /li/. UK speakers often keep a crisp /ˈtɪ.pɪ.kli/ but with less pronounced rhotics and a more clipped final syllable. Australian speakers generally align with UK patterns but may have a slightly broader vowel in /ɪ/ and a more relaxed final /li/. Overall, the stress stays on the first syllable, but vowel quality and rhythm shift subtly.
The difficulty lies in quick, multi-syllabic sequencing and the light, unstressed final syllable. The middle /ɪ/ and the /k/ onset require precise timing to avoid a slurred middle syllable or an over-emphasized final /li/. Practice maintaining even rhythm across all three syllables and ensure the final /li/ remains light and quick, not drawn out.
Is the final syllable of 'typically' ever pronounced as a schwa? Not in careful pronunciation; the final -ly tends to be /li/ rather than /lə/ in standard American, British, and Australian speech. The primary issue is ensuring the /tɪ/ onset and the /k/ closure link smoothly to /li/ without inserting extra vowels. Use a brisk transition from /k/ to /l/ for natural speech.
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Typically derives from the adjective typical, which originates in medieval Latin typicus, from Greek typos ‘mark, form, model’. The suffix -ly emerged in English to form adverbs indicating manner. In the 15th-16th centuries, typically began appearing in English texts as an adverb meaning in a typical manner or generally. The core sense shifted to describe something that is characteristic or usual, aligning with the concept of a “typical example” or “type.” Over time, typical evolved to describe frequency or regularity (as in “in a typical year”), expanding into usage that signals a general pattern rather than a strict rule. The word is now a high-frequency adverb in both spoken and written English, appearing across academic, professional, and everyday registers to indicate expected or normal behavior.
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💡 These words have similar meanings to "typically" and can often be used interchangeably.
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Words that rhyme with "typically"
-lly sounds
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