magic e

Core Rule

Magic e (Silent e) refers to a final e that is not pronounced but changes the preceding vowel from a short vowel to its long (letter-name) sound. The common pattern is VCe.

Articulation Guide

Focus on the medial vowel. Long vowels are produced with a steadier tongue position, wider oral resonance, and continuous airflow; the final e remains silent.

Word Frame Examples

cap → cape (/æ/ → /eɪ/), kit → kite (/ɪ/ → /aɪ/), hop → hope (/ɒ/ → /oʊ/). The consonant frame stays constant while the vowel quality shifts.

Pitfalls

Not all final e follows this rule (have, give). It does not apply to vowel teams or r-controlled vowels.