Vowel ʊ Lax High Back Rounded Vowel

Описание: Learn how to pronounce the lax /ʊ/ vowel with this comprehensive guide. While many languages have a tense "oo" sound, the relaxed version found in words like good, book, and push is unique.

We explore the common spelling patterns, including the "double O" (cook, stood), the letter "U" (put, pull), and the "OU" combination (should, would, could). We also address the most common accent error: using a tense /u/ where a lax /ʊ/ is required. By practicing anchor words and contrast phrases, you will learn how to drop the jaw slightly and relax the tongue to achieve a natural American sound.

Key highlights include:

Tense vs. Lax: Distinguishing between /u/ (Luke) and /ʊ/ (look).

The "Double O" Trap: Identifying the few words where "oo" sounds like "uh" instead of "ooh."

Anchor Words: Using easy words like push or should to correct more difficult words.

Lip Position: Moving from tightly pursed lips to a relaxed, slightly rounded shape.

0:00 Introduction to the /ʊ/ (good book) vowel

0:35 Common spellings: OO, U, and OU

1:15 The "Double O" challenge: Food vs. Foot 2:00 How to relax the mouth for the /ʊ/ sound

2:45 Practice phrases: Push the book

3:30 Using anchor words for consistency

The "good book" vowel (/ʊ/) is a high back rounded lax vowel. It is one of the more elusive sounds in American English because its spelling often overlaps with the "tense" /u/ sound found in food. Mastering this sound requires learning to relax the mouth while maintaining a subtle lip round.


🎙️ Phonetic Focus: The Near-Close Near-Back Rounded Vowel /ʊ/

To produce the /ʊ/ sound, start with the tense /u/ as in "blue." Then, let your tongue drop slightly and relax the muscles in your lips. They should remain rounded, but not pursed.

Tense /u/: High tongue, tight lips (Boot)

Lax /ʊ/: Lower tongue, relaxed lips (Book)

💡 Practice Phrases (Anchor Word Matching)

Try these phrases where both words use the same lax /ʊ/ sound:

Should cook

Push and pull

Good book

Put your foot

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