au sound

Rule Core

au is a common English vowel digraph, typically pronounced as the long vowel /ɔː/. It represents a rounded, open sound often found in stressed syllables, as in author and caution. Historical exceptions exist, such as laughter.

Articulation Guide

Lower the back of the tongue, keep it relaxed, round the lips slightly, and let voiced air flow steadily.

Word Analysis

In author, au = /ɔː/ similar to "or"; in caution, the long vowel leads into /ʃ/; in laughter, au shifts to /æ/ due to historical spelling.

Pitfalls

Do not confuse au with /aʊ/; watch for sound changes before r or gh.