double r

Core Rule

Double r (rr) typically follows a vowel, as in arr. In English phonics, rr does not create a longer sound. Instead, it stabilizes the /r/ and often signals that the preceding vowel is short or unstressed.

Articulation Guide

Produce /r/ as a voiced sound: raise the tongue tip toward the alveolar ridge without touching, slightly round the lips, and allow smooth airflow with vibration.

Word Analysis

• arrange /əˈreɪndʒ/: rr anchors a clear /r/; the vowel is not lengthened.
• array /əˈreɪ/: rr links schwa to /r/ smoothly.
• arrest /əˈrest/: stable /r/ with stress later.

Pitfalls

Do not trill or overemphasize rr; avoid reducing it to a single r in spelling.