er sound

Rule Core

er is a classic r-controlled vowel, typically pronounced /ɜːr/ or reduced /ər/. The vowel is pulled toward the center by r, losing its pure vowel quality.

Articulation Guide

Raise the mid-tongue, curl the tongue tip slightly back without touching; lips relaxed; airflow steady and voiced.

Word Analysis

In swear, the spelling ear forms /eər/ under r-influence. Do not separate it into /e/ + /r/; glide smoothly into the r-coloring.

Pitfall Guide

Do not confuse er with ar or or; word-final -er is often unstressed and reduced.