You often hear the word “metastasis” in oncology news, medical dramas, or biology class, and its spelling can be intimidating. Learn the correct pronunciation so you can discuss it clearly and confidently.

Step‑by‑Step Pronunciation Guide

Phonetic spelling: /məˈtæs.tə.sɪs/
Simplified: meh‑TASS‑tuh‑sis

Breaking it down
• meh – unstressed, like the start of “machine.”
• TASS – stressed syllable, rhymes with “mass.”
• tuh – quick, soft connector.
• sis – ends like “sis” in “sister.”
Say it in four smooth beats: meh‑TASS‑tuh‑sis.

Common Mispronunciations

• “meh‑tuh‑STAY‑sis” – wrong vowel and stress
• “mee‑tuh‑STAH‑siss” – inserts long vowels
• Leaving off the final “sis” sound and saying “metasta”

Practice Sentences

• “Early detection helps prevent metastasis.”
• “The oncologist explained how the tumor entered metastasis.”
• “Research focuses on blocking cancer metastasis pathways.”

Metastasis in Medicine and Research

In oncology, staging a cancer often depends on whether metastasis has occurred. New therapies aim to stop cancer cells from traveling through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to form secondary tumors.

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Metastasis is the process by which cancer cells spread from the primary tumor to other parts of the body. When cancer “metastasizes,” it forms secondary tumors in distant organs like the lungs, liver, or bones.