au/aw sound

Rule Core

au / aw represent a stable long vowel sound, typically /ɔː/ (UK) or /ɔ/ (US). The spelling au often appears in the middle or at the beginning of words, while aw commonly occurs at the end of a syllable or word. Despite spelling differences, the vowel quality remains consistent.

Articulation Guide

Lower the jaw slightly, round the lips gently without tension, and raise the back of the tongue. Airflow is steady and voiced, producing a rich, open vowel resonance.

Word Analysis

In centaur, au sits in the stressed syllable and is pronounced /ɔː/: /ˈsentɔːr/. Avoid shifting it toward /ɑː/ or the diphthong /aʊ/. Similar patterns appear in author and cause.

Pitfall Alert

Do not confuse au/aw with ou/ow making /aʊ/. Spelling changes, sound stays stable: think “aw” as a single, held vowel.