Athletic is pronounced ath-LET-ik (IPA /æθˈlɛtɪk/). Three syllables only; go straight from 'ath' to 'LET-ik'.
IPA: /æθˈlɛtɪk/
Syllables: ath · LET · ik
Common ESL mistake: Learners insert a schwa saying 'ath-uh-LET-ik' with four syllables.
Tip: Three syllables only; go straight from 'ath' to 'LET-ik'.