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The -ED Ending Pronunciation Rule: /t/, /d/, or /ɪd/ Based on the Preceding Sound

Published on April 6, 2026

The -ed ending is pronounced in three different ways depending on the sound before it. Understanding these rules will help you speak past tense verbs more naturally.

Rule 1: The /t/ Sound

Use /t/ when the base verb ends in a voiceless consonant sound (p, k, f, s, ch, th).

Rule 2: The /d/ Sound

Use /d/ when the base verb ends in a voiced consonant or vowel sound.

Rule 3: The /ɪd/ Sound

Use /ɪd/ when the base verb ends in /t/ or /d/ sounds. This creates an extra syllable.

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