wh says w
Core Rule
The wh = /w/ rule means that in modern English, most wh- words are pronounced exactly like w, not /hw/. This reflects historical sound change and is standard in contemporary accents.
Articulation Guide
Round and project the lips slightly, keep the tongue relaxed and back, allow voiced airflow with no friction.
Word Analysis
- whale /weɪl/
- wharf /wɔːrf/
- when /wen/ All begin with the same /w/ sound.
Pitfalls
Do not add extra breathy aspiration. Remember who is an exception with /h/.
Phonics Breakdown
Round lips, relax the tongue back, voice on, glide into /w/
Sound Reference
- Treat wh as w for smoother fluency
- Memorize key exceptions like who
Common Mistakes
Adding unnecessary /h/ aspiration
Pronouncing who as /wuː/