25. Speech sounds in English: Diphthongs

 English diphthongs consist of a combination of two vowel sounds within the same syllable. The main diphthongs in English include:

 

*/eɪ/ as in "day": Begins with a sound close to /e/ and glides into /ɪ/

 

*/aɪ/ as in "sky":  Starts with a sound close to /a/ and glides into /ɪ/

 

* /ɔɪ/ as in "coin":  Begins with a sound close to /ɔ/ and glides into /ɪ/

 

* /aʊ/ as in "house": Starts with a sound close to /a/ and glides into /ʊ/

 

These diphthongs contribute to the rich and varied vowel sounds in English pronunciation.

                                                       

-Submitted by Adheena P  

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English Diphthongs are dynamic combinations of vowel sounds that lend a distinctive musicality to our language.

 

1./oʊ/ - as in "go":

In the word "go," feel the shift from the "o" to the rounded "ʊ." This diphthong encapsulates a harmonious blend, creating a distinct auditory contour.

 

2./aɪ̯/ - as in "my":

 In the word "my," notice the gliding transition from the "a" sound to the close front unrounded vowel, represented by the small "ɪ̯." It's a subtle but essential diphthong.

 

3./aɪ/ - as in "time":

Picture the arc your tongue makes, starting with the "a" sound and smoothly gliding into the "ɪ" sound. Together, they create the diphthong in "time," a fusion of two distinct vowel qualities.

 

4./aʊə/ - as in "power":

The diphthong in "power" seamlessly combines the /aʊ/ and /ə/ sounds, creating a dynamic transition from the open "a" to the neutral schwa sound "ə."

 

Understanding these diphthongs not only enhances your language skills but also provides a deeper appreciation for the intricate orchestration of sounds in English

-Submitted by   Shaima Allipra