long i

Core Rule

Long i is pronounced /aɪ/, like the letter name. Common spellings include i-e (time), igh (light), and final y (my). The logic: open syllables or fixed patterns lengthen the vowel with a glide.

Articulation Guide

Start mid-front, glide to high-front; mouth opens then relaxes; airflow is continuous.

Word Analysis

• daylight / delight: igh reliably signals /aɪ/; gh is silent.
• category: final y = /i/ (long e), not long i—use it as a contrast.

Pitfalls

Don’t confuse /aɪ/ with short /ɪ/; don’t overgeneralize y as /aɪ/.