-le syllable

Core Rule

The -le syllable is a common final syllable pattern in English, typically spelled consonant + le. In pronunciation, the letter e is silent and functions only to support /l/ as a syllabic consonant. The syllable is pronounced /əl/, and primary stress usually falls on the preceding syllable. Frequent spelling forms include -ble, -cle, -dle, -gle, -ple, -tle.

Articulation Guide

Produce a weak schwa /ə/ with a relaxed jaw and neutral tongue position. Then lift the tongue tip to the alveolar ridge to form a clear lateral /l/. Airflow remains continuous; do not insert an extra vowel. The result is a single, compact syllable.

Word Analysis

• eagle /ˈiː.gəl/: Stress on the first syllable; -gle forms one syllable with /əl/.
• agreeable /əˈɡriː.ə.bəl/: The ending -able is pronounced /əbəl/, with -le as the syllabic core.
• enjoyable /ɪnˈdʒɔɪ.ə.bəl/: Stress on joy; the final -le is reduced but must keep a clear /l/ closure.

Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not pronounce -le as /liː/.
• Avoid adding an extra vowel between the consonant and /l/.