This task measures your ability to respond to a range of general and academic questions by producing a coherent, clear spoken response with natural pace, expressive intonation, and varied, accurate language.
You will have 45 seconds to answer each question. Initial questions focus on factual information and personal experience, whereas later questions ask you to express and support your opinions regarding broader issues.
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You have agreed to take part in a research study about urban life. You will have a short online interview with a researcher. The researcher will ask you some questions.
Please answer the interviewer's questions.
Response Time
Please answer the interviewer's questions.
Response Time
Please answer the interviewer's questions.
Response Time
Please answer the interviewer's questions.
Response Time
No more questions!
You have completed this speaking interview.
Thank you for speaking with me today. I’m conducting a study about people’s experiences and perceptions of living in a city: I’d like to ask you some questions. Now do you currently live in a big city, a small town, or a village? And what is it like there?
High Band Sample Response
High-scoring Sample 1 Response
Well, um, I currently live in a big city, and honestly, I really enjoy it. You know, there’s easy access to public transportation, so many restaurants, cultural events, and, yeah, better job opportunities. I love how everything’s just within reach, and I rarely feel bored. Of course, there are downsides—like heavy traffic, noise, and, uh, the high cost of living—but, you know, I think the benefits outweigh those negatives. For me, someone who likes staying active and connected, the city just suits my personality and goals perfectly. play_circle_filledPersonal Experience or Description Response Structure
| Template part | How this sample does it |
|---|---|
| Introduction | done "I currently live in a big city, and honestly, I really enjoy it" — opens with a direct answer and positive attitude, immediately addressing where the speaker lives and what it is like |
| Reason | done "there's easy access to public transportation, so many restaurants, cultural events, and… better job opportunities" — lists concrete advantages that explain why the speaker enjoys city life |
| Details | done "I love how everything's just within reach, and I rarely feel bored. Of course, there are downsides — like heavy traffic, noise, and… the high cost of living" — expands on daily experience and adds balanced perspective by acknowledging negatives |
| Reaction + Closing | done "I think the benefits outweigh those negatives. For me, someone who likes staying active and connected, the city just suits my personality and goals perfectly" — wraps up with a personal assessment tying location preference to character |
General Template
[Introduction] I currently live in [your location], and honestly, I really [your feeling about it].
[Reason] There's [advantage 1], [advantage 2], [advantage 3], and [advantage 4].
[Details] I love how [what you enjoy most], and I rarely feel [negative feeling]. Of course, there are downsides — like [downside 1], [downside 2], and [downside 3].
[Reaction + Closing] I think the benefits outweigh those negatives. For me, someone who [your personality/lifestyle], [your location] just suits my [what it suits] perfectly.
Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| everything's just within reach, and I rarely feel bored | everything's just accessible, and I rarely feel bored everything's just close at hand, and I rarely feel bored |
| I think the benefits outweigh those negatives | I think the benefits exceed those negatives I think the benefits surpass those negatives |
| there are downsides — like heavy traffic | there are drawbacks — like heavy traffic there are disadvantages — like heavy traffic |
| someone who likes staying active and connected | someone who likes keeping busy and connected someone who likes remaining engaged and connected |
| so many restaurants, cultural events, and better job opportunities | so many restaurants, artistic happenings, and better job opportunities so many restaurants, cultural activities, and better job opportunities |
| the city just suits my personality and goals perfectly | the city just matches my personality and goals perfectly the city just fits my personality and goals perfectly |
High-scoring Sample 2 Response
Well, at the moment I live in a big city, specifically Shanghai. To be honest, it is a mix of excitement and inconvenience. On the positive side, there is always something happening. For example, there are new galleries, street food festivals, and late buses that run almost all night. Besides, employment options are diverse, so finding a new job or networking is fairly easy. Nevertheless, housing is expensive, and traffic jams are part of daily life, so patience is required. Overall, it is stimulating but occasionally stressful, and I have kind of learned to adapt. play_circle_filledPersonal Experience or Description Response Structure
| Template part | How this sample does it |
|---|---|
| Introduction | done "at the moment I live in a big city, specifically Shanghai. To be honest, it is a mix of excitement and inconvenience" — identifies the location and gives a balanced overview of the experience |
| Reason | done "On the positive side, there is always something happening. For example, there are new galleries, street food festivals, and late buses that run almost all night. Besides, employment options are diverse" — gives specific examples of why city life is exciting |
| Details | done "Nevertheless, housing is expensive, and traffic jams are part of daily life, so patience is required" — adds realistic downsides with smooth transitional language |
| Reaction + Closing | done "Overall, it is stimulating but occasionally stressful, and I have kind of learned to adapt" — summarises a balanced perspective with a personal-growth angle |
General Template
[Introduction] At the moment I live in [your location], specifically [city name]. To be honest, it is [your overall impression].
[Reason] On the positive side, [what keeps things interesting]. For example, there are [example 1], [example 2], and [example 3]. Besides, [another advantage].
[Details] Nevertheless, [downside 1], and [downside 2], so [consequence].
[Reaction + Closing] Overall, it is [positive quality] but occasionally [negative quality], and I have kind of learned to [how you cope].
Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| it is a mix of excitement and inconvenience | it is a blend of excitement and inconvenience it is a combination of excitement and inconvenience |
| employment options are diverse | job prospects are diverse career opportunities are diverse |
| finding a new job or networking is fairly easy | finding a new job or making connections is fairly easy finding a new job or building contacts is fairly easy |
| traffic jams are part of daily life | congestion is part of daily life gridlock is part of daily life |
| it is stimulating but occasionally stressful | it is exciting but occasionally stressful it is invigorating but occasionally stressful |
| I have kind of learned to adapt | I have kind of learned to adjust I have kind of learned to acclimate |
Great. Cities affect people in different ways. Some people find cities dynamic and exciting. Others find that cities are overwhelming and drain them of energy. What kind of reactions do you have to cities? Why do you think you react in this way?
High Band Sample Response
High-scoring Sample 1 Response
Well, you know, cities really tend to excite me, but, um, they can also be a bit overwhelming at times. I enjoy being around people, having access to different activities, and, you know, exploring new places. There’s always something going on, which keeps life interesting. But, yeah, I do get tired of the noise, the crowds, and that constant rush. I think it’s because I enjoy stimulation and variety, but I also need time to recharge, so I try to balance it with quiet routines, like morning walks or just relaxing at home. play_circle_filledReaction or Feeling Response Structure (Variant B)
| Template part | How this sample does it |
|---|---|
| Reaction | done "cities really tend to excite me, but… they can also be a bit overwhelming at times" — states the mixed emotional reaction directly |
| Reason | done "I enjoy being around people, having access to different activities, and… exploring new places. There's always something going on, which keeps life interesting" — explains what drives the positive side of the reaction |
| Example | close No specific instance or anecdote of a time the speaker felt excited or overwhelmed — the response stays with a general pattern of reaction, which still fully addresses the prompt within the time limit |
| Nuance | done "I do get tired of the noise, the crowds, and that constant rush" — acknowledges the downside while maintaining the overall positive stance |
| Close | done "I think it's because I enjoy stimulation and variety, but I also need time to recharge, so I try to balance it with quiet routines, like morning walks or just relaxing at home" — self-reflective closing that explains the root cause of the dual reaction |
General Template
[Reaction] [Topic] really tends to [your reaction], but it can also be [counter-reaction] at times.
[Reason] I enjoy [what you enjoy 1], [what you enjoy 2], and [what you enjoy 3]. There's always [what keeps it interesting], which keeps life [positive quality].
[Example] For example, [a specific time or situation that shows your reaction].
[Nuance] But I do get tired of [negative aspect 1], [negative aspect 2], and [negative aspect 3].
[Close] I think it's because I enjoy [what you need], but I also need time to [what you need for balance], so I try to balance it with [balancing activity], like [specific example 1] or just [specific example 2].
Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| they can also be a bit overwhelming at times | they can also be a bit intense at times they can also be a bit overpowering at times |
| exploring new places | discovering new places venturing into new places |
| that constant rush | that perpetual hustle that non-stop pace |
| I enjoy stimulation and variety | I enjoy excitement and variety I enjoy engagement and variety |
| I also need time to recharge | I also need time to recuperate I also need time to restore my energy |
| which keeps life interesting | which makes life engaging which adds excitement to life |
High-scoring Sample 2 Response
Actually, my reaction depends on how long I stay in a city. When I arrive, I usually feel energized because the tall buildings, neon lights, and crowded sidewalks create a buzz that is hard to resist. However, after a couple of weeks, the constant noise and the hurry everyone seems to be in start to drain my batteries. I think I respond this way because I grew up in a quiet coastal town, so deep down I still crave slow walks and silence. In short, cities excite me at first, yet they eventually wear me out. play_circle_filledReaction or Feeling Response Structure (Variant B)
| Template part | How this sample does it |
|---|---|
| Reaction | done "my reaction depends on how long I stay in a city" — opens with a nuanced position that frames the response as time-dependent |
| Reason | done "When I arrive, I usually feel energized because the tall buildings, neon lights, and crowded sidewalks create a buzz that is hard to resist" — explains the initial positive reaction with vivid sensory details |
| Example | done "after a couple of weeks, the constant noise and the hurry everyone seems to be in start to drain my batteries" — provides a specific time frame that illustrates how the reaction evolves |
| Nuance | done "I grew up in a quiet coastal town, so deep down I still crave slow walks and silence" — connects the reaction to personal background, adding self-awareness |
| Close | done "cities excite me at first, yet they eventually wear me out" — concise summary that mirrors the opening claim |
General Template
[Reaction] Actually, my reaction depends on [what it depends on].
[Reason] When I [first experience], I usually feel [initial reaction] because [sensory details or reasons] create [what they create].
[Example] However, after [time period], [what changes] start to [negative effect].
[Nuance] I think I respond this way because [personal background or reason], so deep down I still [what you crave].
[Close] In short, [topic] [positive effect] at first, yet [eventual negative effect].
Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| create a buzz that is hard to resist | create an energy that is hard to resist create an excitement that is hard to resist |
| start to drain my batteries | start to sap my energy start to exhaust me |
| I still crave slow walks and silence | I still long for slow walks and silence I still yearn for slow walks and silence |
| the hurry everyone seems to be in | the rush everyone seems to be in the haste everyone seems to be in |
| the tall buildings, neon lights, and crowded sidewalks | the tall buildings, bright signs, and crowded sidewalks the tall buildings, fluorescent displays, and crowded sidewalks |
| they eventually wear me out | they eventually exhaust me they eventually tire me out |
Ok. Next, I’d like to ask your opinion. Some people believe that those who live in cities lead more interesting lives. They would argue, for example, that people who live in cities have more access to professional opportunities and interesting leisure activities. Do you agree that people who live in cities lead more interesting lives? Why or why not?
High Band Sample Response
High-scoring Sample 1 Response
I think it depends on how you define “interesting.” People in cities definitely have more access to events, entertainment, and diverse communities, which can lead to a more active lifestyle. But that doesn't mean people in small towns or villages lead boring lives. They might be involved in meaningful local projects, have deep personal connections, or enjoy unique hobbies. City life may offer more variety, but interesting lives are shaped by curiosity and passion, not just location. So no, I don't fully agree—people can live interesting lives anywhere. play_circle_filledOpinion or Agreement Response Structure
| Template part | How this sample does it |
|---|---|
| Opinion | done "I think it depends on how you define 'interesting'" — opens with a nuanced stance that partially challenges the premise rather than giving a binary agree/disagree |
| Main reason | done "People in cities definitely have more access to events, entertainment, and diverse communities, which can lead to a more active lifestyle" — concedes the urban advantage while framing it as only one dimension |
| Example | done "They might be involved in meaningful local projects, have deep personal connections, or enjoy unique hobbies" — provides counter-examples of fulfilling non-city lifestyles |
| Second reason | done "interesting lives are shaped by curiosity and passion, not just location" — introduces a philosophical argument that reframes the entire question |
| Close | done "So no, I don't fully agree — people can live interesting lives anywhere" — clean summary that states the final position clearly |
General Template
[Opinion] I think it depends on how you define "[key term]."
[Main reason] People in [option A] definitely have more access to [advantages], which can lead to [positive outcome].
[Example] But that doesn't mean people in [option B] lead [negative assumption]. They might be involved in [counter-example 1], have [counter-example 2], or enjoy [counter-example 3].
[Second reason] [Topic] may offer more [quality], but [key insight] are shaped by [what truly matters], not just [the factor in question].
[Close] So no, I don't fully agree — [your conclusion].
Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| access to events, entertainment, and diverse communities | access to events, entertainment, and varied populations access to events, entertainment, and multicultural groups |
| which can lead to a more active lifestyle | which can lead to a more dynamic routine which can lead to a busier way of living |
| involved in meaningful local projects | involved in significant local projects involved in worthwhile local projects |
| have deep personal connections | have strong interpersonal bonds have close relationships |
| shaped by curiosity and passion | shaped by inquisitiveness and passion shaped by intellectual interest and passion |
| people can live interesting lives anywhere | people can live interesting lives regardless of location people can live interesting lives no matter where they are |
High-scoring Sample 2 Response
Well, I partly agree with that statement. First of all, it is true that urban residents can choose from an impressive range of concerts, museums, and language courses almost any day of the week. In addition, large companies usually base their headquarters in cities, so ambitious professionals have more chances to climb the corporate ladder. On the other hand, an interesting life is not only about external options. Someone who lives in a small mountain village can learn to make cheese, write poetry, and volunteer for a rescue team. Therefore, interest depends on mindset rather than only location. play_circle_filledOpinion or Agreement Response Structure
| Template part | How this sample does it |
|---|---|
| Opinion | done "I partly agree with that statement" — takes a clear but balanced position from the start |
| Main reason | done "it is true that urban residents can choose from an impressive range of concerts, museums, and language courses almost any day of the week" — acknowledges the validity of the city-life argument with specific examples |
| Example | done "large companies usually base their headquarters in cities, so ambitious professionals have more chances to climb the corporate ladder" — supports the concession with a professional-opportunity example |
| Second reason | done "an interesting life is not only about external options. Someone who lives in a small mountain village can learn to make cheese, write poetry, and volunteer for a rescue team" — pivots to the counter-argument with vivid rural-life examples |
| Close | done "interest depends on mindset rather than only location" — concise, memorable conclusion that captures the key insight |
General Template
[Opinion] Well, I partly agree with that statement.
[Main reason] First of all, it is true that [group A] can choose from an impressive range of [options], almost [frequency].
[Example] In addition, [supporting fact], so [group within A] have more chances to [benefit].
[Second reason] On the other hand, [the topic] is not only about [narrow factor]. Someone who [alternative scenario] can [example 1], [example 2], and [example 3].
[Close] Therefore, [the quality in question] depends on [what it truly depends on] rather than only [the limited factor].
Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| choose from an impressive range of concerts | choose from a remarkable range of concerts choose from a notable range of concerts |
| more chances to climb the corporate ladder | more chances to advance in the professional hierarchy more chances to rise through the company ranks |
| interest depends on mindset rather than only location | interest depends on attitude rather than only location interest depends on outlook rather than only location |
| urban residents can choose | urban inhabitants can choose urban dwellers can choose |
| ambitious professionals have more chances | driven professionals have more chances aspiring professionals have more chances |
| volunteer for a rescue team | volunteer for an emergency squad volunteer for a relief crew |
Good points. Let me ask you one final question. For some time now, researchers have been interested in whether green spaces, such as parks, make people who live in cities happier. Do you think that city governments should create more parks in urban areas to promote a general sense of happiness and life satisfaction? Why or why not?
High Band Sample Response
High-scoring Sample 1 Response
Yes, I believe city governments should invest in more parks. Urban life can be stressful, and green spaces offer a great way for people to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. Parks also bring communities together and provide cleaner air and cooler temperatures, especially during hot summers. I think they improve mental health and overall life satisfaction. That said, parks need to be safe, well-maintained, and accessible to everyone. So it's not just about building them—it's about designing them well and making sure all neighborhoods can benefit equally. play_circle_filledBroader Issue or Future Prediction Response Structure
| Template part | How this sample does it |
|---|---|
| Position | done "I believe city governments should invest in more parks" — states the position clearly and directly in the first sentence |
| First reason | done "Urban life can be stressful, and green spaces offer a great way for people to relax, exercise, and connect with nature" — connects the proposal to quality-of-life benefits |
| Example | close No specific instance, trend, or personal example is given — the response relies on general reasoning instead, which is a defensible choice because Q4 topics often lend themselves to broader arguments and the answer still delivers a thorough case within the time constraint |
| Second reason | done "Parks also bring communities together and provide cleaner air and cooler temperatures, especially during hot summers. I think they improve mental health and overall life satisfaction" — expands the argument to environmental and social benefits |
| Close | done "parks need to be safe, well-maintained, and accessible to everyone. So it's not just about building them — it's about designing them well and making sure all neighborhoods can benefit equally" — adds nuance about implementation quality before closing |
General Template
[Position] Yes, I believe [authority/entity] should [action].
[First reason] [Topic context], and [proposed solution] offers a great way for people to [benefit 1], [benefit 2], and [benefit 3].
[Example] For instance, [observation, trend, or personal example that supports the position].
[Second reason] [The proposal] also [additional benefit 1] and [additional benefit 2], especially [when/where it matters most]. I think [broader impact].
[Close] That said, [the proposal] needs to be [quality 1], [quality 2], and [quality 3]. So it's not just about [basic action] — it's about [higher standard] and making sure [equity concern].
Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| a great way for people to relax, exercise, and connect with nature | a great way for people to relax, exercise, and engage with the natural environment a great way for people to relax, exercise, and immerse themselves in nature |
| parks also bring communities together | parks also unite neighborhoods parks also foster social bonds |
| parks need to be safe, well-maintained, and accessible | parks need to be safe, properly cared for, and accessible parks need to be safe, kept in good condition, and accessible |
| I think they improve mental health and overall life satisfaction | I think they improve mental health and general well-being I think they improve mental health and quality of life |
| making sure all neighborhoods can benefit equally | making sure all neighborhoods can gain the same advantages making sure all neighborhoods can share the rewards fairly |
| green spaces offer a great way | parks and gardens offer a great way natural areas offer a great way |
High-scoring Sample 2 Response
Yes, definitely, I believe city governments should invest in more parks. To begin with, green spaces give residents a free place to exercise, walk the dog, or simply sit on a bench and watch clouds drift by. This everyday contact with nature lowers stress levels and can even improve concentration, according to studies I have read. Moreover, parks work as natural air filters, which is crucial in polluted urban environments. Critics sometimes argue that land should be used for housing, yet well planned parks increase property values and social cohesion, so the benefits clearly outweigh the costs. play_circle_filledBroader Issue or Future Prediction Response Structure
| Template part | How this sample does it |
|---|---|
| Position | done "I believe city governments should invest in more parks" — clear, direct position statement |
| First reason | done "green spaces give residents a free place to exercise, walk the dog, or simply sit on a bench and watch clouds drift by. This everyday contact with nature lowers stress levels and can even improve concentration" — detailed health and wellness benefits with accessible everyday examples |
| Example | done "according to studies I have read" — references research evidence to support the health claims |
| Second reason | done "parks work as natural air filters, which is crucial in polluted urban environments" — adds an environmental argument |
| Close | done "Critics sometimes argue that land should be used for housing, yet well planned parks increase property values and social cohesion, so the benefits clearly outweigh the costs" — addresses the counter-argument and rebuts it with economic and social data |
General Template
[Position] Yes, definitely, I believe [authority/entity] should [action].
[First reason] To begin with, [the proposal] gives [beneficiaries] a [quality] place to [activity 1], [activity 2], or simply [activity 3]. This everyday [interaction] lowers [negative outcome] and can even improve [positive outcome].
[Example] According to [evidence source], [supporting claim].
[Second reason] Moreover, [the proposal] works as [function], which is crucial in [relevant context].
[Close] Critics sometimes argue that [counter-argument], yet [the proposal] [rebuttal benefit 1] and [rebuttal benefit 2], so the benefits clearly outweigh the costs.
Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| watch clouds drift by | watch clouds float past watch clouds glide by |
| lowers stress levels | reduces stress levels decreases stress levels |
| parks work as natural air filters | parks work as natural purifiers parks work as natural cleansing systems |
| crucial in polluted urban environments | essential in polluted urban environments vital in polluted urban environments |
| increase property values and social cohesion | increase property values and community unity increase property values and neighborhood solidarity |
| the benefits clearly outweigh the costs | the benefits clearly exceed the costs the benefits clearly surpass the costs |
Keywords In The Practice
Related Words
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cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
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/s/ |
84% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/oʊ/
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/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ð/
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/dh/ |
88% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ə/
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/ax/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
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/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɪ/
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/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/d/
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/d/ |
78% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ə/
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/ax/ |
88% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
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/l/ |
50% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 80% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
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/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/v/
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/v/ |
40% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
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/ax/ |
91% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/p/
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/p/ |
81% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɑ/
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/aa/ |
84% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/r/
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/r/ |
88% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/t/
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/t/ |
78% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/aɪ/
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/ay/ |
88% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/m/
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/m/ |
77% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 64% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
69% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
11% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
79% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
73% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
93% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
95% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
100% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
63% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 66% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
38% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
35% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
72% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
21% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
59% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
97% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
65% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
73% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/dʒ/
play_circle_filled
/jh/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ʤ</strong> sound, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
70% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
73% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
79% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
62% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
89% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ð/
play_circle_filled
/dh/ |
59% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
91% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/dʒ/
play_circle_filled
/jh/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ʤ</strong> sound, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
60% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
52% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
64% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
87% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
84% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/j/
play_circle_filled
/y/ |
68% accurate
To create the 'j sound' <strong>ʤ</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction (similar to the friction of a zh sound <strong>ʒ</strong>). |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
82% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
66% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
33% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
51% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
60% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
68% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
69% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
80% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
78% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 67% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
0% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
67% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/ʊ/
play_circle_filled
/uh/ |
64% accurate
To create the 'other u' <strong>ʊ</strong> sound, the back of the tongue is raised to a mid-high position. The sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth toward the back of the mouth. The jaw is slightly closed and the lips are pulled into a loose circle. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
76% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
88% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
96% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
66% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
87% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
43% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
32% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
90% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
0% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 80% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
80% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 28% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
39% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
5% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
25% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
45% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
82% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
80% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
73% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 74% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
40% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
40% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
78% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 80% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ð/
play_circle_filled
/dh/ |
72% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
69% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
91% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
87% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
78% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
80% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
85% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
78% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/tʃ/
play_circle_filled
/ch/ |
100% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
67% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
70% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
72% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 73% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
73% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
73% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
73% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
73% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
73% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
80% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/j/
play_circle_filled
/y/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'j sound' <strong>ʤ</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction (similar to the friction of a zh sound <strong>ʒ</strong>). |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
57% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
53% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ð/
play_circle_filled
/dh/ |
80% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
82% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
73% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/θ/
play_circle_filled
/th/ |
49% accurate
To create the <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
58% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
66% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 48% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
48% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
60% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
53% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
55% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
63% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
0% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
0% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
80% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
82% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/dʒ/
play_circle_filled
/jh/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>ʤ</strong> sound, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
94% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
68% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 80% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ð/
play_circle_filled
/dh/ |
40% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
93% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
95% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/b/
play_circle_filled
/b/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>b</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
78% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
77% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
81% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/b/
play_circle_filled
/b/ |
77% accurate
To create the <strong>b</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
79% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 70% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/dʒ/
play_circle_filled
/jh/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ʤ</strong> sound, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
67% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
55% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
54% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
82% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
70% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/h/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
76% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
88% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
88% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
88% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
88% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
88% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
Pronunciation: 89% Fluency: 93% Grammar: 75% Coherence: 90% Vocab: 80% Relevance: 95%
Strengths
Overall sentence structures are simple and correct, with consistent past and present tense use when describing past graduation and current study.
Pronouns and basic subject-verb agreement are handled accurately, making the message easy to follow.
Weaknesses
Minor grammatical issues and redundancy reduce polish; for instance the line "Because I'm working during the day, so all my classes are in evenings or online," combines "Because" and "so" and omits the article in "in evenings," which would be more natural as "because I'm working during the day, all my classes are in the evenings or online."
Strengths
The response directly answers the question about current or most recent educational experience, describing program type, field, pacing, and how it fits with work.
The student includes relevant contextual details (part-time study, evening/online classes, program length), which align well with the study topic.
Weaknesses
The answer is mostly complete but could give a bit more specificity about learning goals or skills sought; for example the speaker says "I realized I needed stronger skills" without specifying which skills were needed.
Strengths
The response follows a clear, logical sequence: current status, past degree, reason for returning to study, logistical details, and current situation, which makes it easy to follow.
Transitions between ideas are natural and the overall narrative is concise, which supports listener comprehension.
Weaknesses
There are small moments of colloquial filler and mild contradiction that slightly interrupt flow, such as "which is kind of exhausting, but it's also convenient," where tightening the phrasing would improve smoothness.
Strengths
The student uses relevant, domain-specific vocabulary such as "data analytics", "part-time", "psychology degree", and "juggling" which clearly situates their educational context.
The language includes useful descriptive words like "exhausting" and "convenient" that convey personal perspective effectively.
Weaknesses
There are a few collocation and register slips that make the phrasing slightly less natural; for example the transcript wording "part-time master program" would be more idiomatically expressed as "part-time master's program" or "part-time master's degree program".
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
88% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
40% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
40% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
94% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
80% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
4% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
56% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
49% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
78% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
70% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
81% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
76% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
95% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
50% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
24% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
58% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 79% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
67% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
69% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
61% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 59% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
68% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
31% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
56% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
81% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
77% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
72% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
28% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 79% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
51% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
86% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/tʃ/
play_circle_filled
/ch/ |
69% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
90% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
85% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
84% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
98% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
96% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
54% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
48% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
86% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 54% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
48% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
39% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
48% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
76% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
cancel 67% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
46% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
53% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/h/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
73% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 53% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
54% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
69% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
43% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
43% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
12% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
85% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
85% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
85% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
85% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
85% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
88% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
88% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
88% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
88% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
88% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
88% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
88% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
88% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 70% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
99% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
0% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ð/
play_circle_filled
/dh/ |
89% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
93% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
93% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
68% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
95% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
72% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
91% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
89% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
82% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
68% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/b/
play_circle_filled
/b/ |
85% accurate
To create the <strong>b</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
78% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
66% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
83% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
65% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
66% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
68% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
84% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
88% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 69% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/j/
play_circle_filled
/y/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'j sound' <strong>ʤ</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction (similar to the friction of a zh sound <strong>ʒ</strong>). |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
57% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
0% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/dʒ/
play_circle_filled
/jh/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>ʤ</strong> sound, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
94% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/b/
play_circle_filled
/b/ |
94% accurate
To create the <strong>b</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
70% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
74% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
57% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
87% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
66% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 70% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
55% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
59% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
61% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/dʒ/
play_circle_filled
/jh/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ʤ</strong> sound, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/b/
play_circle_filled
/b/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>b</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
83% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
67% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
cancel 73% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
64% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
67% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
59% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
53% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/h/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
76% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ð/
play_circle_filled
/dh/ |
79% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
79% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 64% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
66% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
100% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
64% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
30% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
78% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
82% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
69% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ð/
play_circle_filled
/dh/ |
90% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
88% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
75% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
71% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
76% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
73% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
Pronunciation: 89% Fluency: 94% Grammar: 65% Coherence: 80% Vocab: 75% Relevance: 90%
Strengths
Most simple sentence structures are correct and understandable, and you use past tense appropriately in places like "College brought me back."
Weaknesses
There are tense and agreement inconsistencies and some awkward constructions that interrupt fluency, for example "Teacher knows my name and that is a cozy atmosphere" mixes present tense and a clumsy connector, and the phrasing "I kind of have the adjust-get-by mentality" sounds ungrammatical and unclear.
Strengths
You stay on topic throughout, describing how elementary and middle school, high school, and college differed and naming clear factors such as class size, teacher attention, and course choice — for example, "it's small classes. Teacher knows my name" and "College brought me back because I finally had the freedom to choose courses that interest me."
Weaknesses
The response is concise but could give more specific details about how those factors affected motivation or learning; for instance, the statement "I felt a bit like a factory" introduces a strong impression but isn't expanded to explain which aspects felt that way or why.
Strengths
Your response follows a clear chronological order (elementary/middle school → high school → college), which helps the listener follow your experience; transitions like "High school was a different story" and the summary "So yeah" create a coherent narrative arc.
Weaknesses
Some phrasing interrupts smooth flow and makes parts feel abrupt or informal, such as the compressed expression "adjust-get-by mentality," which breaks the natural rhythm and clarity of the account.
Strengths
You use clear, everyday vocabulary that makes your meaning easy to follow, and you employ effective figurative language such as calling the large classes “a bit like a factory” to convey feeling.
Weaknesses
Your range is somewhat limited and occasionally you create awkward compounds that reduce clarity, as in the phrase "adjust-get-by mentality" and the singular in "a mixed feeling," which would be stronger as "mixed feelings."
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
83% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
58% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/tʃ/
play_circle_filled
/ch/ |
100% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
79% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
71% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
93% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
85% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
95% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
97% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
72% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
86% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
61% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
79% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
90% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
93% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
84% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 79% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
80% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
52% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
78% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
71% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
85% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
54% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
75% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
67% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
84% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
59% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
69% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 73% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
75% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
57% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
50% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
87% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
35% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/dʒ/
play_circle_filled
/jh/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ʤ</strong> sound, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
51% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
78% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
78% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
57% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
76% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/j/
play_circle_filled
/y/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'j sound' <strong>ʤ</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction (similar to the friction of a zh sound <strong>ʒ</strong>). |
|
/ʊ/
play_circle_filled
/uh/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'other u' <strong>ʊ</strong> sound, the back of the tongue is raised to a mid-high position. The sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth toward the back of the mouth. The jaw is slightly closed and the lips are pulled into a loose circle. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
66% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
68% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
48% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
58% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
64% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
91% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
76% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
80% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/tʃ/
play_circle_filled
/ch/ |
71% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
89% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
45% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
40% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 68% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
0% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 79% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
30% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
73% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
95% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/b/
play_circle_filled
/b/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>b</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
27% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
82% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
76% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
75% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
69% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
68% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
43% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
54% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
68% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
63% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
66% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
63% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 79% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
86% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
83% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
12% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ð/
play_circle_filled
/dh/ |
50% accurate
To create <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
94% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
71% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
92% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
0% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 80% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
60% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
45% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 46% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
98% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
50% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
6% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
36% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
76% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
46% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
2% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
80% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
92% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
67% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
78% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
60% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
68% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
74% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/h/ |
69% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
77% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
80% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
82% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
98% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
59% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
85% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
90% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
97% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
36% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 79% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
88% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
96% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
92% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
31% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
87% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
66% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
66% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
85% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 69% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
75% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/j/
play_circle_filled
/y/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'j sound' <strong>ʤ</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction (similar to the friction of a zh sound <strong>ʒ</strong>). |
|
/ʊ/
play_circle_filled
/uh/ |
79% accurate
To create the 'other u' <strong>ʊ</strong> sound, the back of the tongue is raised to a mid-high position. The sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth toward the back of the mouth. The jaw is slightly closed and the lips are pulled into a loose circle. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
61% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
48% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
28% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
50% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
62% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
68% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
84% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
75% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
91% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
60% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
78% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/tʃ/
play_circle_filled
/ch/ |
100% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
76% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 66% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/g/
play_circle_filled
/g/ |
41% accurate
To create the <strong>g</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>g</strong> is less than that for a <strong>k</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
54% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
40% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
65% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
80% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
98% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
74% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
Pronunciation: 92% Fluency: 91% Grammar: 45% Coherence: 60% Vocab: 60% Relevance: 85%
Strengths
You correctly use tense to mark stages of your life (early on vs now), which helps show the timeline of your motivation.
Short, simple clauses like "I like to research" are grammatically correct and easy to follow.
Weaknesses
Sentence fragments and missing auxiliary verbs interrupt flow; for example, "Then encouraging the motivation shift to curiosities" is an incomplete clause that should be rephrased for clarity.
There are errors in word forms and structure that affect meaning, as in "it's more fun still to internal curiosities," where the verb form and structure are incorrect and confusing.
Final sentence structure is awkward and ungrammatical: "which I feel I'm grown up, I guess so" needs restructuring to something like "I feel I've grown up" or "I guess I've grown up."
Strengths
Your response stays on topic throughout, addressing how motivation has changed from early academic rewards to curiosity and now to career practicality.
You give clear, relevant examples (home achievements, research interests, master's degree goals) that support your main point.
Weaknesses
Occasional unclear phrasing reduces precision: the line "So, it's more fun still to internal curiosities" weakens the connection between personal interest and career motivation and could be clarified to strengthen relevance.
Strengths
Your answer follows a generally logical chronological order (early school, then curiosity, now master's/career), which helps listeners follow your development.
Key transitions such as moving from childhood rewards to curiosity and then to practicality provide an overall coherent narrative arc.
Weaknesses
Some sentences are disjointed and make the narrative choppy; for example, the jump "Then encouraging the motivation shift to curiosities" interrupts the flow and would benefit from a clearer connector or rephrasing.
Ambiguous phrasing like "career survival motivation, which I feel I'm grown up, I guess so" muddles the conclusion and weakens the wrap-up of your story.
Strengths
You use a range of useful academic and career-related words such as practicality, relevant, and promotion that communicate your ideas clearly.
You also show curiosity vocabulary like research and curiosities, which helps express your intellectual interests.
Weaknesses
Some word choices are awkward or misused, which can confuse the listener — for example, the phrase "goal stars" seems unintended and distracts from your meaning.
Colloquial or incorrect verbs appear in places, as in "stack my report card on the fridge," which likely aimed for a different verb and reduces clarity.
cancel 75% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
67% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 57% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ah/ |
57% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
91% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/θ/
play_circle_filled
/th/ |
91% accurate
To create the <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
91% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
91% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
91% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
cancel 28% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
77% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
98% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
83% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
61% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
24% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
32% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
82% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
92% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/j/
play_circle_filled
/y/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'j sound' <strong>ʤ</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction (similar to the friction of a zh sound <strong>ʒ</strong>). |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
94% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
75% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
84% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
60% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
46% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
42% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
76% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 68% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
75% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
52% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
51% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
59% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
25% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
51% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
83% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
77% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/z/
play_circle_filled
/z/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'z sound' <strong>z</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
78% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 58% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/f/
play_circle_filled
/f/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'f sound' <strong>f</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is to be a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the production of the <strong>f</strong>. A common error English language learners make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking other sounds to and from the <strong>f</strong>. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
55% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
41% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
80% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
79% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
78% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
56% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/θ/
play_circle_filled
/th/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
78% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aʊ/
play_circle_filled
/aw/ |
82% accurate
Start with the jaw open and the body of the tongue in a low position in the mouth. The bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then, as the jaw closes, the lips close into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
91% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
100% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
54% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
81% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 61% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
24% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
55% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
67% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
56% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
52% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/i/
play_circle_filled
/iy/ |
93% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>i</strong> sound the tongue is forward, with the body of the tongue near the tooth ridge. The tongue is higher in the mouth for this sound compared to all other vowels in English. Because the tongue is so high, the jaw is relatively closed during the <strong>i</strong> sound. The sides of the tongue touch the top, side teeth during the sound. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/j/
play_circle_filled
/y/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'j sound' <strong>ʤ</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction (similar to the friction of a zh sound <strong>ʒ</strong>). |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
34% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/j/
play_circle_filled
/y/ |
91% accurate
To create the 'j sound' <strong>ʤ</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the back tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released with friction (similar to the friction of a zh sound <strong>ʒ</strong>). |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
86% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/w/
play_circle_filled
/w/ |
93% accurate
To create the 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> the jaw is mostly closed and the lips form a small, tight circle. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords must vibrate during the production of the sound. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
68% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 69% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
96% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɚ/
play_circle_filled
/er/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ɚ</strong> sound first raise the back of the tongue so that the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
77% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
0% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 80% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
45% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
100% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
87% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
40% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
84% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
47% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
66% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/aɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ay/ |
57% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
35% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
84% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 82% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/p/
play_circle_filled
/p/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>p</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/ɑ/
play_circle_filled
/aa/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong> the vocal tract is very open for the production of the 'aa sound' <strong>ɑ</strong>. In fact, the jaw is held more open and the back of the tongue is held lower for this sound than any other American English vowel sound pronunciation. The tongue touches the inside of the bottom teeth so that the top of the tongue is nearly even with the top of the bottom teeth. The lips are held open and kept rounded, but relaxed. |
|
/b/
play_circle_filled
/b/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>b</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
68% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/s/
play_circle_filled
/s/ |
79% accurate
To create the 's sound' <strong>s</strong>, the front of the tongue is placed close to the tooth ridge. The tip of the tongue should be close to the upper backside of the top front teeth. The tongue is kept tense as air is pushed between a small groove along the center of the tip of the tongue and the front of the tooth ridge. The front sides of the tongue touch the side teeth toward the front of the mouth. The lips are held slightly tense during the sound. |
|
/ɔ/
play_circle_filled
/ao/ |
58% accurate
To create the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong> the entire tongue is pushed back and kept low during the pronunciation of the 'aw sound' <strong>ɔ</strong>. The bottom side teeth can be felt alongside the front of the tongue during the sound. The back of the tongue has only a slight rounding upward at the very rear of the mouth. The lips are made into an oval shape, and may stick slightly outward. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
75% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/v/
play_circle_filled
/v/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'v sound' <strong>v</strong>, the jaw is held nearly closed. The upper backside of the bottom lip is pressed very lightly into the bottom of the top teeth. Air is pushed out the mouth between the top teeth and the upper backside of the bottom lip. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. The lips are kept mostly relaxed during the <strong>v</strong>. A common error ESL/ELL students make is overproducing this sound by curling the bottom lip under the top teeth. This creates problems when linking to and from the <strong>v</strong>. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
78% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
64% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
91% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
55% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/d/
play_circle_filled
/d/ |
70% accurate
To create this sound air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
70% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/æ/
play_circle_filled
/ae/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ae</strong> sound the front of the tongue is pushed further forward and is held lower in the mouth when forming the 'short a' /æ/ sound than with any other vowel sound. The tip of the tongue will touch the inside of the bottom front teeth. The body of the tongue is rounded slightly upward. The jaw is lowered and the lips are held apart, allowing the entire oral cavity to remain open. |
|
/b/
play_circle_filled
/b/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>b</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract by closing the lips. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/r/
play_circle_filled
/r/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>r</strong> sound the back of the tongue is raised so the sides of the tongue touch the back teeth. The center of the back of the tongue is lower and the air travels through this groove to create the sound. The tip of the tongue may point upward, or may be left low. |
|
/eɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ey/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>eɪ</strong> sound, begin with the tongue pushed somewhat forward but in a neutral position in the mouth. Then, as the jaw closes slightly, move the body of the tongue upward until it is near the tooth ridge--similar to the position of a 'y sound' <strong>y</strong>. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top teeth at the end of the sound. |
|
/ʃ/
play_circle_filled
/sh/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'sh sound' <strong>ʃ</strong>, air is forced between a wide groove in the center of the front of the tongue and the back of the tooth ridge. The sides of the blade of the tongue may touch the side teeth. The lips are kept slightly tense, and may protrude somewhat during the production of the sound. This sound is a continuous consonant, meaning that it should be capable of being produced for a few seconds with even and smooth pronunciation for the entire duration. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
92% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
58% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
80% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
83% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/oʊ/
play_circle_filled
/ow/ |
71% accurate
To pronounce the 'ow sound' <strong>oʊ</strong> the body of the tongue is pushed back and in a low-to-mid mouth position and the bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then the sound moves into a 'w sound' <strong>w</strong> by raising the jaw slightly while closing the lips into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/h/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/aʊ/
play_circle_filled
/aw/ |
78% accurate
Start with the jaw open and the body of the tongue in a low position in the mouth. The bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then, as the jaw closes, the lips close into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 94% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
80% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
94% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 68% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
61% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
58% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
52% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 91% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/h/ |
76% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/aʊ/
play_circle_filled
/aw/ |
100% accurate
Start with the jaw open and the body of the tongue in a low position in the mouth. The bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then, as the jaw closes, the lips close into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 58% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/m/
play_circle_filled
/m/ |
0% accurate
To create the 'm sound' <strong>m</strong>, the lips are pressed together, causing the air to be blocked from leaving the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
87% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/n/
play_circle_filled
/n/ |
91% accurate
To create the 'n sound' <strong>n</strong>, the air is blocked from leaving the mouth by pressing the tip against the tooth ridge and the sides of the front of the tongue against the side teeth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
68% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/ax/ |
40% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
49% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/h/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/ɛ/
play_circle_filled
/eh/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɛ</strong> sound the middle of the tongue rounds slightly upward and the sides of the tongue may lightly touch the top and bottom side teeth. The lips and jaw are loose and relaxed. |
|
/l/
play_circle_filled
/l/ |
82% accurate
To create the <strong>l</strong>, the tip of the tongue is placed against the middle of the tooth ridge. The sound is created when air travels alongside the tip of the tongue, between the front of the tongue and the side teeth. |
|
/θ/
play_circle_filled
/th/ |
45% accurate
To create the <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
cancel 85% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/θ/
play_circle_filled
/th/ |
100% accurate
To create the <strong>ð</strong> sound the tip of the tongue is placed behind the top front teeth. The friction occurs between the tip of the tongue and the top front teeth. Subtle friction may also occur between the top of the front of the tongue and the tooth ridge. |
|
/ɪ/
play_circle_filled
/ih/ |
100% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>ɪ</strong> sound the lips are relaxed and the central/front area of the tongue is in the central/high area of the mouth for this sound. The overall neutrality and relaxed tongue and lip position is why it is one of the pronunciations used in an unstressed vowel position. |
|
/ŋ/
play_circle_filled
/ng/ |
100% accurate
To create the 'ng sound' <strong>ŋ</strong>, air is prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The soft palate drops, allowing air to pass out through the nose. The sound is voiced, so the vocal cords vibrate while producing it. |
|
/k/
play_circle_filled
/k/ |
71% accurate
To create the <strong>k</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the back of the tongue lifts and presses against the soft palate at the back of the mouth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The amount of aspiration used to produce a <strong>k</strong> is greater than that used for a <strong>g</strong>. |
cancel 79% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
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/ax/ |
79% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
cancel 88% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/aɪ/
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/ay/ |
88% accurate
To pronounce the <strong>aɪ</strong> at the beginning of the sound, the tongue is low and touches the bottom, side teeth. Then as the jaw closes slightly, the body of the tongue moves upward until it is near the tooth ridge, similar to the position of a 'y sound'. The front sides of the tongue touch the inside of the top, side teeth. |
cancel 80% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/ə/
play_circle_filled
/h/ |
82% accurate
To create the 'ah sound' <strong>ə</strong> the body of the tongue is relaxed and set low in the mouth. The sides of the tongue lightly touch the bottom teeth during the formation of the sound. The jaw is kept in a neutral position, and the lips are relaxed. It is very similar to the 'other ah sound' <strong>ʌ</strong>. |
|
/aʊ/
play_circle_filled
/aw/ |
56% accurate
Start with the jaw open and the body of the tongue in a low position in the mouth. The bottom teeth can be felt along the sides of the tongue. Then, as the jaw closes, the lips close into a small circle. The body of the tongue moves upward until the tongue is near the back of the hard palate. |
cancel 76% accurate
| sound | you said |
|---|---|
|
/t/
play_circle_filled
/t/ |
66% accurate
To create the <strong>t</strong>, air is briefly prevented from leaving the vocal tract when the tip of the tongue presses against the tooth ridge while the sides of the tongue press against the upper side teeth. The sound is aspirated when the air is released. The aspiration for a <strong>t</strong> is greater than the aspiration for a /d/, especially when it is the first sound of a word or the first sound of a stressed syllable. |
|
/u/
play_circle_filled
/uw/ |
85% accurate
To create the 'oo sound' <strong>u</strong>, the lips are pulled into a tense, small circle. In addition, the back of the tongue is raised to a high position and sides of the tongue may touch the top teeth at the back of the mouth. |
Pronunciation: 85% Fluency: 89% Grammar: 70% Coherence: 85% Vocab: 75% Relevance: 90%
Strengths
Sentences are mostly short and grammatically simple, which keeps the message easy to follow.
Subject-verb constructions often work correctly in statements like "Schools still prioritize memorizing content for tests."
Weaknesses
There is a subject-verb agreement issue in the line "AI and Google is so convenient to use now," where "AI and Google" should take a plural verb.
Some phrasing is grammatically awkward, for instance "could use a serious improvement" which is nonstandard, and the clause "and even know how to manage mental health" leaves the subject unclear and feels incomplete.
Strengths
Directly answers the prompt about whether education prepares people for real life and offers clear suggestions: more problem solving, collaboration, and mental health education.
References to current tools and trends like "AI and Google" show awareness of modern learning resources and anchor the response in the question.
Weaknesses
The response remains on-topic but is brief and lacks supporting detail; for example, saying "AI and Google is so convenient to use now" does not explain how that should change teaching practice.
Suggestions such as "classes spend more time on problem solving and collaboration" are relevant but would be stronger with concrete examples of activities or curricula.
Strengths
The answer follows a clear structure: an overall judgment, a diagnosis of the problem, and proposed solutions, which makes the response easy to follow.
Points progress logically from criticizing test-focused learning to proposing skills-based instruction and mental health support.
Weaknesses
Informal fillers interrupt the flow and create minor coherence gaps, for example "you know" appears in "you know, especially AI and Google is so convenient to use now."
Some sentences end abruptly or lack connective detail, as in "and even know how to manage mental health," which leaves unclear who should "know" and how that would be taught.
Strengths
Uses clear, relevant terms such as "problem solving," "collaboration," "mental health," and "AI and Google," which suit the topic and make the message immediate.
Word choices are conversational and appropriate for a spoken answer, helping the listener grasp the main points quickly.
Weaknesses
The range of vocabulary is limited; phrases like "you know" are filler rather than content, as in "you know, especially AI and Google is so convenient to use now."
Some word combinations are awkward and reduce fluency — for example, "could use a serious improvement" sounds slightly off and would be stronger as "could use serious improvement" or "could use a major improvement."
The response fulfills the demands of the task, with at most minor lapses in completeness. It is highly intelligible and exhibits sustained, coherent discourse.
overall: 90
Demonstrates excellent fluency and coherence with occasional pauses. Uses a wide range of vocabulary and idioms with rare mistakes. Uses perfect colloquial grammar while speaking. Has very good pronunciation with very mild accent.
pronunciation: 89
Uses a wide range of pronunciation features. Sustains flexible use of features, with only occasional lapses. Is easy to understand throughout; First language accent has minimal impact on intelligibility.
grammar: 64
Uses a mix of simple and complex structures, but with limited flexibility. May make frequent mistakes with complex structures though these rarely cause comprehension problems.
vocabulary: 72
Has a wide enough vocabulary to discuss topics at length and make meaning clear in spite of inappropriacies. Generally paraphrases successfully.
coherence: 79
Speaks at length without noticeable effort or loss of coherence. Uses a range of connectives and discourse markers with some flexibility.
relevance: 90
This is AI based and cannot be relied on for 100% accuracy. The score is the average of all relevance scores from each question.
fluency: 92
Speaks fluently with only occasional repetition or self-correction; hesitation in speech is usually content-related and only rarely to search for vocabulary or grammatical constructs. Develops topics coherently and appropriately.
Criteria Score Reports
Task Fulfillment 4/5
Task fulfillment is about how well you respond to the question you are given. TOEFL raters are looking for a response that answers the question directly, with relevant ideas that are fully developed. Fulfilling the task means answering all parts of the question completely.
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Pronunciation & Intonation 4/5
Pronunciation and intonation is about how you form English sounds and how you use natural English intonation. Your pronunciation and intonation can damage your score if it is difficult for the raters to understand what you are saying.
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Flow & Speech 4/5
Flow and speech is about how quickly you can speak and how much pausing and hesitation you use. You don't have to speak quickly, but just quickly enough to sound natural and explain all of your ideas. Raters want to hear natural rhythm and flow.
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Correct Grammar Usage 3/5
Correct grammar usage is about how you use English grammar and sentence structure. Raters want to see that you can use what you know correctly. Your grammar doesn't have to be perfect to score high, but mistakes shouldn't interfere with your meaning.
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Vocabulary Usage (Appropriacy and Range) 3/5
Vocabulary usage is about how you use English words. Raters are looking for responses that use different words correctly and accurately, and that use a wide range of words that help listeners understand.
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Support & Development 4/5
Support and development is about the content of your speaking response. Your content should be related directly to the topic, and you should have several main ideas that support your opinion or position. These ideas should be persuasive or compelling.
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Connections & Coherence 4/5
Coherence and connections are about how you put your ideas together and link different sentences to each other. Raters want to see speaking that flows naturally from idea to idea without confusing the listener.
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No Speaking Answer Found
You must submit a speaking response before using this training exercise.
Sample Answer:
Well, um, I currently live in a big city, and honestly, I really enjoy it. You know, there’s easy access to public transportation, so many restaurants, cultural events, and, yeah, better job opportunities. I love how everything’s just within reach, and I rarely feel bored. Of course, there are downsides—like heavy traffic, noise, and, uh, the high cost of living—but, you know, I think the benefits outweigh those negatives. For me, someone who likes staying active and connected, the city just suits my personality and goals perfectly.
speaking LessonsCompleted: 0 / 64
Speaking Interview: Response Templates
Use these as flexible skeletons for each question type. Replace bracketed parts with content that fits the question; do not memorize fixed paragraphs. Each template follows the same four-part structure: Main answer → Reason → Example → Closing.
Q1 Template: Personal Experience or Description
Example question: "When obligations pause, what kinds of projects, games, or outings do you reach for first?"
Introduction: [Answer directly: what you do, where, when] — "In my free time, I mostly enjoy [activity] and [activity]."
Reason: [Why you do it] — "[Activity] helps me [benefit], while [activity] gives me [benefit]."
Details: [One or two specific details] — "I usually [do X] every [when] at [where]. As for [second activity], I have been [specific detail]."
Reaction + Closing: [How it makes you feel, why it matters] — "Both activities make me feel [feeling], and I think [short reflection]."
Example response:
[Introduction] In my free time, I mostly enjoy drawing and going for long walks in the park. [Reason] Drawing helps me relax and express ideas visually, while walking gives me a chance to clear my mind after a busy day. [Details] I usually sketch in a notebook every evening after dinner. Sometimes I draw people I saw during the day or scenes from my imagination. As for walking, I try to visit the park near my apartment at least three times a week, usually in the late afternoon. [Closing] Both activities make me feel calm and recharged, and I think having a creative hobby alongside a physical one keeps my energy balanced.
Q2 Template: Preference, Choice, or Reaction
Q2 usually asks you to choose between two options, but it can also ask about your personal reaction or feeling toward something. Read the question carefully to decide which variant applies, then follow the matching template below.
Variant A — Preference or Choice (most common)
Example question: "On a free afternoon, are you more likely to choose something you can do entirely by yourself or an activity that needs at least one other person? Why?"
Preference: "I prefer [option] because [one main reason]."
Reason: [Explain why in 1–2 sentences].
Example: "For instance, [specific situation from your life]. [What happened / how it went]."
Optional contrast: "The other choice [short contrast], but for me [restate preference]."
Close: "So overall, I find that [summary of preference]."
Example response (Variant A):
[Preference] I prefer doing something by myself because I find it easier to truly relax when I control the pace. [Reason] When I am with other people, I often end up adjusting to their schedule or preferences, which can feel tiring rather than restful. [Example] For instance, last month I had a free Saturday and I spent it reading at a quiet café. I stayed for three hours without checking the time, and I felt completely refreshed afterward. [Contrast] Group activities can be fun too, but for me they feel more like socializing than recharging. [Close] So overall, I find that solo activities are the best way for me to use free time.
Variant B — Reaction or Feeling
Example question: "Cities affect people in different ways. Some people find cities dynamic and exciting. Others find that cities are overwhelming and drain them of energy. What kind of reaction do you have to cities? Why do you think you react in this way?"
Reaction: "I usually feel [emotion/reaction] when [situation], because [one main reason]."
Reason: [Explain why you feel this way in 1–2 sentences].
Example: "For example, [a specific time or situation that shows this reaction]."
Nuance (optional): "Sometimes [brief acknowledgment of the other side], but overall [restate your main reaction]."
Close: "So I would say that [summary of your reaction and why]."
Example response (Variant B):
[Reaction] I usually feel excited and energized in cities because there is always something happening and so many people around. [Reason] It makes me feel like I am part of a big community, and I love the variety of things to do and see. [Example] For example, the last time I visited a large city, I spent an entire afternoon just walking through different neighborhoods, trying street food, and watching street performers. I felt completely energized the whole time. [Nuance] Sometimes it gets a bit tiring after a very long day, but overall I enjoy the dynamic environment. [Close] So I would say that cities have a very positive effect on me because the energy and variety keep me engaged.
Key point: Whether the question asks for a preference or a reaction, state your answer clearly in the first sentence. For preferences, commit to one option. For reactions, name your feeling directly.
Q3 Template: Opinion or Agreement
Example question: "Therapists sometimes prescribe creative hobbies to manage stress. Do you think a regular pastime can genuinely change someone's mood, or is that idea overstated?"
Opinion: "I [agree / disagree] that [restate claim simply]."
Main reason: "[Reason]. [One sentence of explanation]."
Example: "For instance, [personal experience or observation]."
Second reason (optional): "Also, [second reason]."
Close: "Overall, I believe [restate opinion]."
Example response:
[Opinion] I agree that a regular pastime can genuinely improve someone’s mood. [Main reason] When you focus on a hobby, your mind shifts away from daily stress, and that mental break can lower anxiety over time. [Example] For instance, a friend of mine started painting watercolors every weekend after a stressful year at work. After a few months, she told me she felt noticeably calmer and slept better. [Second reason] Also, hobbies give people a sense of progress and achievement outside of work or school, which builds confidence. [Close] Overall, I believe that regular hobbies are a real tool for emotional health, not just a pleasant distraction.
Q4 Template: Broader Issue or Future Prediction
Example question: "Over the next generation, do you predict average people will defend more hours for leisure, or will economic pressure squeeze hobbies even further? What evidence supports your guess?"
Position: "I think [prediction or value judgment] because [brief reason]."
First reason: "[Explain factor 1]. [One sentence of support]."
Example: "For instance, [observation, trend, or personal example]."
Second reason: "Also, [factor 2 or broader effect on society]."
Close: "Overall, I believe that [summary with insight]."
Example response:
[Position] I think economic pressure will squeeze hobbies further because the cost of living keeps rising while wages grow slowly. [First reason] Many young people already work multiple jobs or take on side projects just to cover rent and student loans. That leaves very little energy or time for leisure activities. [Example] For instance, several of my friends gave up gym memberships and weekend trips this year because they needed to save money. [Second reason] Also, technology blurs the line between work and personal time. People check emails at night and respond to messages on weekends, so even their free hours are not truly free. [Close] Overall, I believe that unless work cultures change significantly, the average person will have even less protected leisure time in the coming decades.
Common Q4 patterns: future predictions ("Will economic pressure squeeze hobbies further?"), importance judgments ("Should large employers fund on-site gyms or stretch breaks?"), broader agree/disagree ("Is home-prepared food almost always better for long-term health than restaurant portions?").
Quick phrase bank
| Preference | "I prefer…," "I would rather…," "I find it more…," "I would choose…" |
| Reaction | "I usually feel…," "My reaction is…," "I tend to find it…," "It makes me feel…" |
| Opinion | "I think that…," "In my view…," "I believe…," "I strongly agree that…" |
| Reason | "The reason is that…," "This is because…," "One important factor is…" |
| Example | "For example…," "For instance…," "In my experience…," "One time I…" |
| Adding | "Also…," "On top of that…," "Another thing is…" |
| Contrast | "However…," "On the other hand…," "Although…" |
| Future | "I think in the future…," "I predict that…," "It is likely that…" |
| Closing | "So for those reasons…," "That's why I think…," "Overall…" |
Master the TOEFL Speaking Interview
In this task, you respond to an interviewer in a simulated conversation. You answer four questions about a single everyday topic (e.g., cooking, hobbies, travel, fitness, reading, education). You have 45 seconds per question — use the full time.
The four questions follow a set progression:
| Q1 | Personal Experience | Describe a habit, activity, or observation |
| Q2 | Preference, Choice, or Reaction | Usually "Do you prefer X or Y? Why?" but sometimes "What is your reaction to X? Why?" — read the question carefully |
| Q3 | Opinion / Agreement | "Do you agree or disagree? Why?" or "What do you think about this trend?" |
| Q4 | Broader Issue / Future Prediction | A future trend, importance judgment, or wider social question |
Tip 1: Answer the question in your first sentence
Listeners should know your stance immediately. Avoid long warm-ups ("That's a very interesting question…") — they eat time without adding score.
Match your opening to the question type:
| Q1 (Experience) | "When I have free time, I usually reach for…" / "In my rhythm, I am most likely to cook…" |
| Q2 (Preference / Reaction) | "I prefer… because…" / "I would choose…" / "I usually feel…" / "My reaction is…" |
| Q3 (Opinion) | "I agree that…" / "In my opinion…" / "I think this trend is…" |
| Q4 (Broader) | "I believe that in the future…" / "I think this is very important because…" |
Tip 2: For Q2, give a direct answer immediately
Q2 usually asks "Do you prefer X or Y?" — if so, commit to one choice in your first sentence and support it. Do not describe both options equally.
However, Q2 can also ask about your reaction or feeling (e.g., "What kind of reaction do you have to cities?"). In that case, name your feeling directly in your first sentence (e.g., "I usually feel excited and energized…"), then explain why and give an example. The structure is the same: clear answer first, reasons next, example last.
Tip 3: Use one concrete example per answer
One specific detail (a class, a job, a trip, a habit) is usually enough to move you from a vague answer to a developed one. Keep the example tied to the prompt — do not drift into unrelated storytelling.
Vague: "I think hobbies are good for health."
Specific: "I started painting during a stressful period at university, and it helped me feel calmer and more focused."
Tip 4: Signal structure with simple signposts
Short markers help the rater follow you: "First," "Also," "For example," "That's why…" You do not need fancy vocabulary — just clear progression.
For Q4 (broader issues and future predictions), useful phrases include: "I think in the future…," "One factor is…," "Another reason is…," "Overall, I believe…"
Tip 5: Manage the clock
Plan roughly 5–10 seconds for your opening, 25–30 seconds for support (reason + example), and 5–10 seconds for a closing sentence.
If you feel rushed, drop extra examples before you drop your conclusion — a sentence that lands beats a trail-off.
Tip 6: Fluency beats perfection
Small slips are normal. Self-corrections are fine if they are quick. Long silent pauses while searching for "perfect" words hurt more than an imperfect but steady response.
If you forget a word, use a simple synonym and keep going. Accuracy matters, but completeness and natural delivery matter more.
