Grammar - Long and Short Vowel Rules/Sounds

[zolkamaniac]

Why is the Vagus Nerve pronounced like Vegas? My understanding of English grammar and pronunciation is that it should have a short "a" sound like "ah", instead of a long "a" sound like "ay".

Another example, incase it matters that it is a proper name, is vapor.

Thanks

 

[5jj]

There are few absolute rules of English pronunciation. Vagus and Magus are both pronounced with the vowel sound of day.

The initial vowel of vapor(AmeE)/vapour(BrE) is also the day vowel. So are the initial vowels of favo(u), savo(or) flavo(u)r, labo(u)r. Valo(ur), however, has the trap vowel.

 

[emsr2d2]

Don't forget that "[Las] Vegas" is pronounced the way it is because it's Spanish!

 

[maliya1]

Not a teacher

Understanding long and short vowel sounds is crucial for clear communication. In English, a vowel is long when it says its own name, like in cake or ride. Short vowels, on the other hand, make a quick, crisp sound, as in cat or hop. Consistent mastery of these rules enhances both reading and spelling skills. So, whether it's the elongated melody of a long vowel or the snappy beat of a short one, grasping these distinctions adds harmony to language expression. Keep practicing to unlock the full symphony of vowels in your linguistic repertoire.

 

[emsr2d2]

@maliya1 Please note that I've added "Not a teacher" to your post. This is required whenever a non-teacher answers another learner's question. You can add it yourself at the start of your responses or, like many others have done, you can make it your signature line in your settings.