Pronunciation Poise: Forte

We often use the word "forte" to refer to an area of expertise, but are we pronouncing it right? Test your knowledge.

What is the correct way to pronounce the word "forte," used in the sense of one's strong point?

1. fort

2. for-tay

3. faw-tay

4. All are correct.

The correct answer is "All are correct." The form of "forte" used to mean "one's strong point" is a French word that refers to the strongest part of a sword blade, and that word is properly pronounced "fort." However, most people think "forte" is the Italian word that means a musical notation to play something loudly, and that word is properly pronounced "for-tay." In any case, the two-syllable pronunciation is long-established and completely acceptable in American English now. "Faw-tay" is a pronunciation in British English.