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Core minimal pairs
Core minimal pairs for /ɪr/
/ɪr/ is a tense high-front vowel gliding into r. Keep it SHORT and tight — don't let it spread into /i/ like 'FLEECE'.
Practice these minimal pairs carefully. If the pair sounds the same in your recording, you're not making the contrast.
Your goal
- Say each pair slowly first — exaggerate the difference.
- Then say each pair at natural speed with the contrast preserved.
- Record and self-check.
/ɪr/NEAR r-coloredArticulator diagram · regional variants · drill ↗
Listen Across Accents
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deer
year
Your Turn — 4 exercises
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