Learn How to Pronounce vowels

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vowels

Definition:

(nou) a speech sound made with the vocal tract open (nou) a letter of the alphabet standing for a spoken vowel

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈvaʊəl

Examples:

Alphabetic representation of the vowels of Attic.

Michael spoke in a dapper New York accent and pronounced his vowels flat.

The pronunciation of the vowels is rather complicated.

Learn more about:
vowels

Related Words:

alphabet

english

pronounce

How to perfect your pronunciation of: vowels

Learn Individual Sounds

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

Copy Others

Use the tools above to find out how different people say vowels 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 vowels in the pronunciation tool as many times as it takes before you get it right. Record yourself saying different sentences with vowels.

Get a Native Tutor

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

Common mistakes of vowels pronunciation

Misplacing stress: Many learners incorrectly stress the second syllable, saying "vo-WELS" instead of the correct "VOW-els" (/ˈvaʊ.əlz/ in US, /ˈvaʊ.əlz/ in UK). Tip: Always emphasize the first syllable for proper pronunciation.
Confusing "v" and "w": Some speakers may pronounce "vowels" as "wowels," substituting "w" for "v." This can lead to misunderstandings. Tip: Practice the "v" sound by placing your top teeth on your bottom lip.
Skipping the schwa: In rapid speech, some may drop the schwa sound in the second syllable, saying "vowls." This makes the word sound incomplete. Tip: Ensure you pronounce both syllables clearly, focusing on the "ə" sound in "vowels."
Incorrect vowel sounds: Learners might mispronounce the "ow" in "vowels," saying it like "ow" in "cow." The correct sound is more like "ou" in "out." Tip: Practice saying "vowels" slowly, focusing on the "aʊ" diphthong.
Overemphasizing syllables: Some speakers may put too much emphasis on both syllables, resulting in a drawn-out pronunciation. This can sound unnatural. Tip: Aim for a balanced stress pattern, emphasizing the first syllable while keeping the second syllable lighter.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "vowels" in American English?

In American English, "vowels" is pronounced as /ˈvaʊəlz/. The first syllable sounds like "vow," and the second syllable is a quick "ulz."

What is the British pronunciation of "vowels"?

In British English, "vowels" is pronounced the same as in American English, /ˈvaʊəlz/. The stress is also on the first syllable, maintaining the same vowel sounds.

What are common mistakes when pronouncing "vowels"?

A common mistake is to pronounce "vowels" with an incorrect emphasis on the second syllable, which can make it sound awkward. Remember to stress the first syllable, "vow," to ensure clarity.

What role does the schwa sound play in "vowels"?

The schwa sound is not present in "vowels," but it often appears in unstressed syllables in other words. In "vowels," the pronunciation is clear, with both syllables distinctly pronounced.