ʊVowels
Audio playback is unavailable on this browser. Install a voice for the target language or try a different device.
/ʊ/
· · ·
Short 'u' sound, relaxed. Lips slightly rounded, tongue relaxed. Like 'u' in 'book'.
Example words
put
book
could
foot
How to make the sound
Raise the back of the tongue and round the lips lightly, keeping the vowel short and relaxed.
What to feel and listen for
It is shorter and less tense than /uː/. Do not hold the lips in a tight long circle.
Common mistake: Do not turn /ʊ/ into the longer /uː/.
See how it differs