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Short vs. Long Vowel Patterns in English: CVC, CVCe, and CVVC Rules

Published on April 6, 2026

English vowel length follows predictable patterns based on the spelling structure of words. Learning these patterns helps you pronounce new words correctly.

The CVC Pattern (Short Vowel)

Words with consonant-vowel-consonant pattern have a short vowel sound. One consonant follows the vowel.

The CVCe Pattern (Long Vowel)

Words with consonant-vowel-consonant-E have a long vowel. The E is silent and changes the vowel sound.

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