Pronunciation of "Blessed"


Is there any difference in meaning or usage when pronouncing "blessed" with two syllables rather than one syllable?


Two: bles-id [blɛsəd]


One: blest [blɛst]



Answer



We reference the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary.


Blessed can be an adjective meaning holy, in which case it is pronounced with two syllables: Blessed is the name of the Lord.


Blessed can also be the past tense of the verb bless, in which case it is pronounced with one syllable: The priest blessed the bread.


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