r-controlled or

Core Rule

The or r-controlled vowel occurs when o is followed by r, producing a unified /ɔːr/ sound. The r reshapes the vowel, overriding short or long o patterns.

Articulation Guide

Tongue slightly raised and retracted; lips gently rounded; steady airflow, then a smooth transition into the r sound.

Word Analysis

• effort: or keeps its quality even in unstressed syllables.
• fourth: or remains /ɔːr/ before th; release /θ/ clearly.
• horror: double r does not double the sound.

Pitfalls

Do not read or as /oʊr/ or split it; distinguish it from other r-controlled vowels.