A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Denpasar
Learn how to pronounce Denpasar, the capital city of Bali, with this clear guide for English speakers.
denpasar
den-PAH-sahr
/dɛnˈpɑːsɑːr/ · den · pa · sar
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It is also frequently mentioned in travel guides and news reports regarding Indonesian tourism and regional politics.
Where the word comes from
The name is derived from Balinese 'den' (north) and 'pasar' (market), reflecting its historical role as a northern market hub.
Common ways people get it wrong
- DEN-pa-zer English speakers often turn the final 'r' into a 'z' sound; keep the 'r' crisp and clear at the end.
- DEN-pə-sər Avoid using the neutral schwa sound for the 'a' in the second syllable; it should be an open 'ah' sound.
Frequently asked
Is the 'r' silent in Denpasar?
No, the 'r' at the end of the word should be lightly articulated. It is not silent, but it should not be overly rhotic or drawn out.
Which syllable has the stress in Denpasar?
The primary stress falls on the second syllable, 'pa'. Aim for a rhythm that emphasizes the middle of the word.
Is Denpasar the same as Bali?
Denpasar is the capital city of the province of Bali. While many tourists visit the city, they often head directly to nearby beach resorts.
