/ɑ/ vs /ɔ/

Many GenAm speakers merge these (cot-caught merger). When distinct, /ɔ/ is more rounded.

Minimal pairs to practice

• cot vs caught
• don vs dawn
• stock vs stalk
• pod vs pawed
• hock vs hawk
• nod vs gnawed

Record each pair below. The analyzer listens for which side of the pair you actually produced and tracks your discrimination rate over time — visible as a chip on your Pronunciation Map.