Pronunciation

English pronunciation can be very tricky, especially when words are spelt in a similar way but said completely differently! Here’s an exercise to help you practise. Of the words in red, which have the same pronunciation? For example:

Doll - Listen
Roll - Listen
Pole - Listen

Even though the last two words are spelt differently, their pronunciation is the same!

Try these sentences and see if you can work out the two that match. Make sure you say the sentences out loud to help you. To hear the words below, use howjjay.com

• 1. Sing the first VERSE.
  
  It could be WORSE.
  That HORSE is huge!
  
  
• 2. I haven't HEARD that song for ages.
  
  Which WORD is correct?
  He's got a long BEARD.
  
  
• 3. Don't BREAK it!
  
  I've got a blonde STREAK in my hair.
  I want STEAK for dinner.
  
  
• 4. HOW do you know?
  
  Turn the music down LOW.
  That COW is hungry.
  
  
• 5. There was BLOOD on his shirt.
  
  I like most types of FOOD.
  The FLOOD was devastating for the local farmers.
  
  
• 6. My AUNT lives in Canada.
  
  I CAN'T go to work tomorrow.
  Ghosts HAUNT this castle.
  
  
• 7. Do you like my new SHOES?
  
  I love listening to the BLUES.
  She GOES to yoga three times a week.
  
  
• 8. The band is going on TOUR.
  
  There are FOUR eggs left.
  OUR house is on the right.