A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Focaccia
Learn how to correctly pronounce the Italian flatbread focaccia with this simple guide to the stressed middle syllable.
focaccia
fuh-KAH-chuh
/fəˈkɑːtʃə/ · fo · cac · cia
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It is a standard term in culinary circles, so using the correct pronunciation helps when discussing bread varieties or ingredients with a server.
Where the word comes from
The word comes from the Italian focaccia, which derives from the Late Latin focacius, meaning 'hearth bread' or 'baked in the ashes.' It shares a root with the Latin focus, meaning 'hearth' or 'fireplace.'
Common ways people get it wrong
- fo-KAY-sha People often mistake the 'cc' for a 'sh' sound without the 't' component; ensure you include the 't' sound to get the Italian pronunciation right.
- fo-KASH-ee-ah This adds an extra syllable at the end; remember that the final 'ia' is pronounced as a single 'uh' sound.
Frequently asked
Is the c in focaccia silent?
No, the 'cc' in focaccia is not silent. It creates a 'tch' sound, similar to the 'ch' in the word 'cheese'.
Do you pronounce the i in focaccia?
In English, the 'i' is not pronounced as a separate syllable. It works with the 'c' to create the 'ch' sound.
Is focaccia pronounced differently in Italy?
While the Italian pronunciation is very similar, it features a slightly sharper 'ch' sound and a more open 'o'. For an English-speaking context, 'fuh-KAH-chuh' is the standard accepted pronunciation.
How do Italians say focaccia bread?
Italians pronounce focaccia as fuh-KAH-chah. The emphasis is on the second syllable.
How do you pronounce focaccia in British English?
In British English, focaccia is often pronounced fuh-KAH-chuh. Some may also use a softer 'ch' sound.
What are common pronunciation mistakes for focaccia?
Common mistakes include pronouncing the 'c' as a hard 'k' sound or misplacing the stress. The 'cc' is a soft 'ch' sound, like in 'cheese'.
