How to pronounce the letter W correctly in English

How to pronounce the letter W correctly in English

The letter W in English has two pronunciations that are easy to remember. Because W is always pronounced /w/, but when it comes before R (WR), it becomes silent. In addition, there are two commonly used vocabulary words: Two and Aswer. The letter W is also silent.

1. The letter “W” is often read as /w/ when it comes at the beginning of each word or after letters like s, a

  • away /əˈweɪ/ (adv)

  • swim /swɪm/ (v)

  • want /wɑːnt/ (n)

  • win /wɪn/ (v)

  • wing /wɪŋ/ (n)

These are all very familiar vocabulary, can you pronounce these words correctly? Please pay attention to the notes and transcription for the best pronunciation.

How to pronounce the letter W correctly in English

2.  The letter “W” is silent if it comes before r

  • wrap /ræp/ (v)

  • wreak /riːk/ (v)

  • wreath /riːθ/ (n)

  • wreck /rek/ (n)

  • write /raɪt/ (v)

Note: There are two special words where the letter "W" is also silent:

  • two/tuː/ (number)

  • answer/ˈæntsər/ (n)

To pronounce correctly, please practice a lot and ask foreign teachers so they can best support you!