v sound rule

Core Rule

The letter v almost always represents /v/, a voiced labiodental fricative. Its sound is stable across positions and rarely appears word-final without a vowel.

Articulation Guide

Place upper teeth lightly on the lower lip. Let air pass with friction while voicing is on. Continuous airflow is essential.

Word Analysis

• avenge: /əˈvendʒ/, clear /v/ before a stressed syllable.
• convene: /kənˈviːn/, medial v links syllables smoothly.
• driver: /ˈdraɪvər/, intervocalic v is fully voiced.

Pitfalls

Do not confuse /v/ with /f/ or /w/. Spelling with v consistently signals voicing.