How to pronounce “rato”
Hear how “rato (while (short time))” sounds in Spanish, then read the breakdown below.
Accent
Breakdown
| Meaning | while (short time) |
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| Syllables | ra · to (2) |
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| Stress | Words ending in a vowel, n or s stress the second-to-last syllable: RA. |
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| IPA | /ˈra.to/ |
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Tips for English speakers
Common mistake: The r at the start of a word is rolled: RRAH-toh, not "RAT-oh".
- The r at the start of a word (or after n, l or s) is rolled: the tip of the tongue flutters against the roof of the mouth.
- Keep every vowel short and pure: a = "ah", e = "eh", i = "ee", o = "oh", u = "oo". No gliding.
Learn more: Spanish R and RR · Stress and accent marks · Spanish vowels
Example sentences
Espera un rato, por favor.Wait a while, please.
Nos vemos en un rato.See you in a bit.
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