r-controlled
Core Rule
The er r-controlled vowel occurs when a vowel is followed by r, shifting to a centralized /ɜr/ sound (AmE /ɝ/). The letter e loses its pure vowel quality under r-influence.
Articulation Guide
Curl the tongue tip slightly toward the alveolar ridge; keep lips relaxed and slightly open; maintain steady airflow without a vowel break.
Word Analysis
experiment: the stressed per is /pɝ/, not /per/. yearning: ear merges into /ɝ/ under r-control, avoiding /jɪər/.
Pitfalls
Watch spelling variants (er/ir/ur/ear) that share the same sound; never drop the r or turn it into a diphthong.
Phonics Breakdown
Curl the tongue tip forward, relax lips, sustain airflow for /ɝ/.
Sound Reference
- Spot the r after a vowel to predict r-control.
- Contrast /e/ vs /ɝ/ with minimal pairs.
Common Mistakes
Pronouncing er as a clear /e/ plus r.
Missing r-control in stressed syllables.