short o

Core Rule

The short o appears in closed syllables and is typically pronounced /ɑ/. The vowel is "closed in" by following consonants, keeping the sound short and stable.

Articulation Guide

Jaw drops slightly, tongue stays low and back, airflow is brief.

Word Analysis

In song, o shifts toward /ɔ/ before ng, a common short-o variation.

Pitfalls

Avoid turning short o into /oʊ/ or confusing it with short a.