Learn English – Pronunciation of the prefix “anti” in American English

american-englishprefixespronunciation

From what I understand, the British pronunciation would be [anti] pretty much everywhere. But in American English I usually hear [antai], although it is mixed up with [anti] from time to time.

antivirus [anti] and [antai]

Is there any good rule/reason to use one versus the other?

Best Answer

The prefix "anti" is acceptably pronounced both ways, however it is usually pronounced [antai] (or to a lesser extent [anti]) when stressed or emphasized, and [antɪ] as in 'lid' when said otherwise.