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Core minimal pairs
Core minimal pairs for /ɑː/
In British RP, BATH words (bath, class, dance) use a long /ɑː/ distinct from TRAP /æ/. General American merges these into /æ/.
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.
/ɑː/long open back unroundedArticulator diagram · regional variants · drill ↗
Listen Across Accents
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bath (UK)
class (UK)
dance (UK)
Your Turn — 4 exercises
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