A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Sake
A Japanese rice wine, pronounced SAH-kay, often enjoyed with meals or on special occasions.
sake
SAH-kay
/ˈsɑːkeɪ/ · SAH · kay
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's also a common topic when discussing Japanese culture or beverages.
Where the word comes from
From Japanese 'sake' (酒), meaning 'alcohol' or 'liquor'. It's a general term that, in English, specifically refers to the Japanese rice wine.
Common ways people get it wrong
- SAKE Some people pronounce the 'a' like the 'a' in 'cake'. Remember the 'a' is more like the 'a' in 'father'.
- SAK This misses the second syllable entirely. Make sure to pronounce both 'SAH' and 'kay'.
Frequently asked
What is sake made of?
Sake is primarily made from fermented rice. Other ingredients like water, yeast, and koji mold are also essential to the brewing process.
Is sake alcoholic?
Yes, sake is an alcoholic beverage. Its alcohol content typically ranges from 15% to 17% ABV, similar to wine.
Is it pronounced saki or sake?
The most common pronunciation in English is sah-kay, with the stress on the second syllable. Some people may pronounce it sa-kee, but this is less common.
How do you pronounce the food sake?
Sake, referring to the Japanese rice wine, is pronounced sah-kay. The stress is on the second syllable.
How do you say sake wine?
Sake wine is pronounced sah-kay, with the emphasis on the second syllable. It is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice.
