ll consonant

Core Rule

The ll consonant usually represents a single /l/ sound, not a doubled one. The double spelling often follows a short vowel to secure vowel length and syllable closure, as in dull.

Articulation Guide

Place the tongue tip on the alveolar ridge, relax the sides, let air flow laterally, and keep voicing steady without aspiration.

Word Analysis

In dull, the short vowel /ʌ/ is closed by ll, producing a dark, syllabic-final /l/ in /dʌl/.

Pitfalls

Avoid lengthening the sound or pronouncing two /l/ sounds. Spelling does not equal extra articulation.