qu blending

Rule Core

In English phonics, qu most commonly represents the /kw/ sound. The letter q is almost always followed by u, where u does not form an independent vowel but signals a /w/ glide after /k/. This pairing is structural rather than optional.

Articulation Guide

Raise the back of the tongue to the soft palate for a clean /k/ release, then immediately round the lips to allow airflow to transition into /w/. The motion is continuous and tightly linked.

Word Analysis

In eloquence, que is pronounced /kwə/, showing qu before a reduced vowel. In etiquette, however, qu is pronounced /k/ only, reflecting its French origin.

Pitfall Alerts

Do not read qu as /kuː/. Also note borrowed words where qu = /k/ and the /w/ glide is absent.