Unit 6.1
Sounds of letter R
Introduction
R is usually pronounced /r/ (rhotic sound), but it can be non-rhotic as well.
Form
The “r” sound can change depending on the position in the words or in their origin.
Example
- /r/:
-
- private;
- rate;
- ring.
- non – rhotic:
- care;
- hurt;
- ruler.
- rh:
- rhapsody;
- rheumatic;
- rhinoceros.
Use
Voiced rhotic sound
- /r/
- pronounced as usual
Non-rhotic sound
- when r is the final letter of the word or r is written before consonants and before a final -e.
- It is pronounced more softly or not even pronounced.
Greek words
- rh- in the beginning of a word
- Pronounced as a common r (/r/)
