Technical Articulation of American English Vowels and Diphthongs
Open Back Vowel Distinction: /ɑ/ versus /æ/
Example: 'cot' [kɑt] vs. 'cat' [kæt]
The lips are completely neutral for /ɑ/.
For /æ/, the mouth stretches laterally as the corners retract.
Low Back vs. Central Vowels: /ɑ/ versus /ʌ/
Example: 'hop' [hɑp] vs. 'cup' [kʌp]
Significant jaw drop is required for /ɑ/.
For /ʌ/, the jaw is higher, and the t ...
Posted on Thu, 07 May 2026 01:25:27 +0000 by tgh