-le syllable
Rule Core
The -le syllable occurs when a word ends in consonant + le, forming an independent syllable. The final e is silent and supports a schwa /ə/, producing /əl/. Stress rarely falls on this syllable.
Articulation Guide
Keep the mouth relaxed. Complete the preceding consonant, then lightly release into a reduced schwa. The tongue moves smoothly with minimal jaw opening.
Word Analysis
angle /ˈæŋ.gəl/: -gle forms a weak final syllable. advisable /ədˈvaɪ.zə.bəl/: -ble is pronounced /bəl/. applicable /ˈæp.lɪ.kə.bəl/: final -ble is unstressed and reduced.
Pitfalls
Avoid pronouncing -le as /liː/. Do not confuse true -le syllables with other -el endings governed by different spelling rules.
Phonics Breakdown
Finish the consonant, relax the mouth, glide briefly into a schwa.
Sound Reference
- Check for consonant + le before syllable division
- Keep the /əl/ short and unstressed
Common Mistakes
Pronouncing -le as /liː/
Confusing -le with other -el endings
Example Words
All Words (86)
advisable angle applicable arguable article assemble attributable available battle beagle beetle bible bicycle cable charitable chronicle circle comparable cripple curable dependable desirable disagreeable distinguishable double durable edible entitle experimental foreseeable forgettable gentleman honorable honourable hurdle idle illegible inaccessible incapable inevitable intangible intelligible liable material middle mingle miracle multiple noble noodle notable paddle peddle plausible possible preferable purple reliable remarkable reputable sample sensible simple sizable snail sociable spectacle sprinkle stable staple stifle subtle tangible tickle title trifle triple trouble tumble uncomfortable unfavourable valuable vegetable viable volatile volt