How to Pronounce Charcuterie

🔤 Correct Pronunciation

✅ "shar-KOO-tuh-ree" (/ʃɑːrˈkuːtəri/) – Standard English pronunciation.
✅ "shar-KOO-tree" (/ʃɑːrˈkuːtri/) – Simplified version, also commonly used.
✅ French pronunciation: "shar-kew-truh-REE" (/ʃaʁ.ky.tʁi/) – Closer to the original French sound.

📌 Fun Fact: The word "charcuterie" comes from the French words "chair" (flesh) and "cuit" (cooked), referring to cured meats.

How Do English Speakers Say "Charcuterie"?

Because French pronunciation is different from English, many people say it in different ways.

✅ "Shar-KOO-tuh-ree" is the most accepted pronunciation in English.
✅ "Shar-KOO-tree" is a shorter, casual way to say it.

📌 Tip: Don't pronounce the "ch" as "ch" in "chair"—it's a soft "sh" sound like "shark"!

Common Mistakes When Pronouncing "Charcuterie"

❌ "Char-CUTE-er-ee" – Incorrect, "cute" is not part of the word.
❌ "Char-COOT-ery" – Incorrect stress and syllables.
❌ "Chair-COO-tree" – Incorrect "ch" sound; it should be "sh" like in "shark."

✅ Correct: Say "shar-KOO-tuh-ree" with a soft "sh" sound at the beginning.

📌 Fun Fact: In France, a "charcutier" is a butcher specializing in cured meats!

Why Is "Charcuterie" Hard to Pronounce?

1️⃣ It’s a French word, and French pronunciation rules are different from English.
2️⃣ The "ch" is pronounced as "sh," which is uncommon in English words.
3️⃣ The ending "-erie" sounds like "ree" instead of "airy" or "er-ee."

📌 Did you know? Charcuterie boards have become very popular worldwide, combining meats, cheeses, fruits, and more!

FAQs About "Charcuterie" Pronunciation

What is the correct way to say "charcuterie" in English?

The best way is "shar-KOO-tuh-ree."

Why do people say "char-cute-er-ee"?

This is a mispronunciation based on how English speakers normally read words. The correct pronunciation follows French sounds.

Can I just say "shar-KOO-tree"?

Yes! Many people use this shorter version, and it's still widely understood.

How do the French say "charcuterie"?

In French, it's pronounced "shar-kew-truh-REE" with a slight rolling "r" at the end.

What does "charcuterie" mean?

It refers to cured meats like salami, prosciutto, and pâté, but today it often includes cheeses, fruits, and crackers too!