How Many Syllables In Dilemma?
3syllables
Dilemma has 3 syllables, di-lemm-a. It is a trisyllabic word.
dilemma
/dɪˈlem.ə/ UK /dɪˈlem.ə/ US
Stress
The main stress falls on the second syllable, lemm.
Syllable Structure
CV/CVC/V
Division By Sound
/dɪ.lem.ə/
Division By Letters
di-lemm-a
A spelling guide that follows the sound division.
Tree Diagram Of Dilemma
S syllable, O onset, R rime, P peak, C coda, Ø no coda.
Parts Of Each Syllable
| Syllable | Onset | Peak | Coda | Pattern | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | d | ɪ | – | CV | open |
| 2 primary stress | l | e | m | CVC | closed |
| 3 | – | ə | – | V | open |
Why Dilemma Divides Here
- Between syllables 1 and 2, /l/ goes to the right, following the Maximal Onsets Principle.
- Syllable 2 is stressed and has the short vowel /e/, so it keeps a coda /m/.
Questions Students Ask
How many syllables are in dilemma?
Dilemma has 3 syllables, di-lemm-a. In British English it is transcribed /dɪˈlem.ə/.
Which syllable is stressed in dilemma?
The second syllable, lemm, carries the main stress.
What is the syllable structure of dilemma?
Dilemma has the structure CV/CVC/V, where C is a consonant sound and V is a vowel sound.
How do you divide dilemma into syllables?
By sound, dɪ.lem.ə. By letters, as a spelling guide, di-lemm-a.