qu sounds kw

Core Rule

In English phonics, qu is pronounced /kw/ in almost all cases. The letter q never stands alone and historically requires a following u to signal this sound combination.

Articulation Guide

For /k/, raise the back of the tongue to the soft palate and release air. Immediately glide into /w/ by rounding and pushing the lips forward. The sound should be smooth and unified, not separated.

Word Analysis

• consequence: con-se-kwence, qu produces a clear /kw/ sound.
• equator: e-kwa-tor, the /w/ glide is especially audible before the vowel.

Pitfalls

Do not read qu as /k/ or /ku/. The letter u usually does not function as a vowel here but signals the /w/ sound.