Learn How to Pronounce oh

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Definition:

(nou) a midwestern state in north central United States in the Great Lakes region

Phonetic Transcription:

əʊ

Learn more about:
oh

Related Words:

speak

talk

say

How to perfect your pronunciation of: oh

Learn Individual Sounds

Break oh down into individual sounds such as əʊ. Practice these parts before you learn to say the whole word.

Copy Others

Use the tools above to find out how different people say oh in their accents, then try to repeat after them.

Pick an Accent

Avoid mixing word pronunciations. If you’re learning American English, stick to it and try not to confuse yourself with British pronunciation.

Record Yourself

Say oh in the pronunciation tool as many times as it takes before you get it right. Record yourself saying different sentences with oh.

Get a Native Tutor

Improve your pronunciation with native speakers! Practice with American, British, and Australian teachers on Promova.

Common mistakes of oh pronunciation

Misplacing stress: Some learners may incorrectly stress "oh" as ˈoʊ in US or ˈəʊ in UK. This can sound unnatural. Tip: Remember that "oh" is typically pronounced with a single, light stress.
Overemphasizing the sound: Pronouncing "oh" too forcefully can make it sound exaggerated and less natural. The correct pronunciation is smooth and relaxed. Tip: Practice saying "oh" softly to maintain a natural flow.
Incorrect vowel sound: Some may confuse "oh" with similar sounds, like "o" in "go." The correct IPA for "oh" is /oʊ/ in US and /əʊ/ in UK. Tip: Focus on the diphthong in "oh" to distinguish it from other vowel sounds.
Using "oh" inappropriately: Learners might use "oh" in contexts where it doesn't fit, such as formal speech. "Oh" is often used informally. Tip: Use "oh" in casual conversations or to express surprise or realization.
Ignoring regional accents: The pronunciation of "oh" can vary by region, leading to misunderstandings. For example, some may use a more rounded vowel sound. Tip: Listen to native speakers from different regions to grasp these subtle variations.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "oh"?

The pronunciation of "oh" is /oʊ/ in American English and /əʊ/ in British English. It is a single syllable, pronounced with a long vowel sound.

Is there a difference in how "oh" is used in American and British English?

Yes, while the pronunciation differs slightly, the usage of "oh" as an expression of surprise or realization remains the same in both dialects. In American English, it often has a more relaxed tone compared to British English.

What are common mistakes when pronouncing "oh"?

A common mistake is to pronounce "oh" too quickly or to shorten it, which can lead to miscommunication. It's important to elongate the vowel sound for clarity.

Are there any minimal pairs with "oh"?

Yes, "oh" can be confused with "owe" (/oʊ/), especially in fast speech. Both words sound similar, but their meanings are different, so context is key in understanding.