ur sound
Core Rule
The ur sound is an r-controlled vowel. When u comes before r, its original vowel quality is reduced and merges with /r/. The most common output is /ɜr/, with variants /ʊr/ and /jʊr/ depending on stress and morphology.
Articulation Guide
Tongue rests mid-central with a slight curl toward /r/. Lips are relaxed to lightly rounded. Airflow is smooth and continuous.
Word Analysis
february: -ur- → /ɜr/ in an unstressed position; purity: ur → /jʊr/ with a brief y-glide; reassure: ur → /ʊr/, showing a rounder vowel quality.
Pitfalls
Do not pronounce ur as /ʌr/ or /juːr/. Be aware that ur/er/ir often share /ɜr/ but differ in spelling.
Phonics Breakdown
Mid-central tongue, slight r-curl, relaxed lips, continuous airflow
Sound Reference
- Anchor the /r/ position before adding the vowel
- Use minimal pairs to contrast ur with plain u+r
Common Mistakes
Pronouncing ur as /uːr/
Ignoring stress and choosing the wrong variant