or /ɔr/

Rule Core

or = /ɔr/ describes the common r-controlled vowel where or produces a rounded open-back vowel followed by /r/. The vowel quality is stable and prominent in stressed syllables.

Articulation Guide

Lower the back of the tongue, round the lips slightly, release /ɔ/, then curl the tongue tip upward without touching the palate to form /r/. Maintain steady airflow.

Word Analysis

oral /ˈɔrəl/: the or in the stressed syllable is /ɔr/. Compare port, form, north for consistent realization.

Pitfalls

Do not confuse or /ɔr/ with er/ir/ur /ɜr/, or with reduced /ər/ in unstressed speech.