qu sound

Rule Core

The digraph qu most commonly represents the blended sound /kw/, combining a velar stop with a labial glide, as in quick and queen. However, in a small group of words, qu represents /k/ only, due to historical spelling.

Articulation Guide

Start with the back of the tongue contacting the soft palate for /k/, then release into rounded lips for /w/. Airflow is continuous, producing a tight consonant blend.

Word Analysis

• conquer /ˈkɒŋkər/: qu = /k/, no /w/ sound.
• liquor /ˈlɪkər/: pronounced with a simple /k/.

Pitfalls

Avoid assuming qu is always /kw/; some high-frequency academic words break the rule and must be learned individually.