Minimal Pair initial /v/ and /w/
as in vow and wow
Below is a list of words that vary only by one starting with the sound /v/ and the other starting with the sound /w/. You can use this list to practise the sounds, or as a list of words to be careful in pronouncing.
/v/ is pronounced with the top teeth biting the bottom lip. /w/ is produced with rounded lips.
If you are practising on your own, try saying both words and making sure your pronunciation of each is different, for example by looking at your mouth shape in the mirror.
If you are practising on your own, try saying both words and making sure your pronunciation of each is different, for example by looking at your mouth shape in the mirror.
Pre-Intermediate
V we
vent went
vest west
vet wet
Intermediate
vary wary
veil whale
verse worse
Vick wick
vile while
vine wine
vow wow
Upper-Intermediate
vie why
vine whine
volley wally
V's wheeze
Advanced
V wee
vein wane
versed worst