oa /oʊ/

Rule Core

The digraph oa typically represents the long vowel /oʊ/, a diphthong gliding from a rounded back vowel to a higher, tenser position. It most often appears in the middle of words.

Articulation Guide

Begin with the tongue positioned mid-back and lips rounded. Glide forward and slightly upward while narrowing the lip opening, maintaining steady airflow.

Word Analysis

• although: The oa clearly realizes /oʊ/, making it a textbook example.
• beauty: Included for contrast; it contains no oa and uses /juː/, highlighting the importance of grapheme recognition.

Pitfall Alerts

Do not confuse oa with alternative spellings like ow or o-e. Be cautious with irregular or borrowed words.