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.
  
  That HORSE is huge!
  It could be WORSE.
  
  
• 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?
  
  That COW is hungry.
  Turn the music down LOW.
  
  
• 5. There was BLOOD on his shirt.
  
  The FLOOD was devastating for the local farmers.
  I like most types of FOOD.
  
  
• 6. My AUNT lives in Canada.
  
  I CAN'T go to work tomorrow.
  Ghosts HAUNT this castle.
  
  
• 7. Do you like my new SHOES?
  
  She GOES to yoga three times a week.
  I love listening to the BLUES.
  
  
• 8. The band is going on TOUR.
  
  OUR house is on the right.
  There are FOUR eggs left.