R-Controlled Vowels

R-controlled vowels, often referred to as “bossy R” vowels, play a unique role in English pronunciation. When the letter “r” follows a vowel, it alters the sound of the vowel, creating a distinct pronunciation that differs from the typical short or long vowel sounds.

What Are R-Controlled Vowels?#

R-controlled vowels occur when a vowel is followed by the letter “r,” and the “r” influences the vowel sound. This combination produces a sound that is neither purely the short nor the long version of the vowel. Instead, it creates a new, unique sound influenced by the “r.”

R-Controlled Vowel Combinations#

ar#

Typically pronounced as “ahr” (e.g., “car,” “star”). The sound is similar to the “a” in “father” but with an added “r” sound.

Examples: car, star, park, start

er#

Typically pronounced as “er” (e.g., “her,” “fern”). The sound is like the “u” in “burn.”

Examples: her, fern, winter, better

ir#

Typically pronounced as “ir” (e.g., “bird,” “stir”). It shares the same sound as “er” and “ur.”

Examples: bird, stir, girl, shirt

or#

Typically pronounced as “or” (e.g., “for,” “corn”). The sound is like the “o” in “more” followed by an “r.”

Examples: for, corn, fork, storm

ur#

Typically pronounced as “ur” (e.g., “fur,” “nurse”). It has the same sound as “er” and “ir.”

Examples: fur, turn, nurse, burn