Minimal Pairs Pronunciation

Practice distinguishing similar-sounding words by speaking minimal pairs. Minimal pairs are words that differ by only one sound, helping you master subtle pronunciation differences. Practice both words in each pair to improve your accuracy.

181 results

Minimal Pair #1

Practice distinguishing between "address (noun)" and "address (verb)" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

a
ˈa-ˌdres
Example: address (noun)
Say: “address (noun)”
First word: "address (noun)"

Word 2

a
ə-ˈres
Example: address (verb)
Say: “address (verb)”
Second word: "address (verb)"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: ˈa-ˌdres vs ə-ˈres

Minimal Pair #2

Practice distinguishing between "sofa" and "so far" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
ˈsō-fə
Example: sofa
Say: “sofa”
First word: "sofa"

Word 2

s
ˈsō ˈfär
Example: so far
Say: “so far”
Second word: "so far"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: ˈsō-fə vs ˈsō ˈfär

Minimal Pair #3

Practice distinguishing between "about" and "a boat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

a
ə-ˈbau̇t
Example: about
Say: “about”
First word: "about"

Word 2

a
ə ˈbōt
Example: a boat
Say: “a boat”
Second word: "a boat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: ə-ˈbau̇t vs ə ˈbōt

Minimal Pair #4

Practice distinguishing between "comma" and "calmer" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
ˈkä-mə
Example: comma
Say: “comma”
First word: "comma"

Word 2

c
ˈkä-mər
Example: calmer
Say: “calmer”
Second word: "calmer"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: ˈkä-mə vs ˈkä-mər

Minimal Pair #5

Practice distinguishing between "cat" and "cut" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
kæt
Example: cat
Say: “cat”
First word: "cat"

Word 2

c
kʌt
Example: cut
Say: “cut”
Second word: "cut"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: kæt vs kʌt

Minimal Pair #6

Practice distinguishing between "hat" and "hot" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
hæt
Example: hat
Say: “hat”
First word: "hat"

Word 2

h
hɑt
Example: hot
Say: “hot”
Second word: "hot"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: hæt vs hɑt

Minimal Pair #7

Practice distinguishing between "wait" and "wet" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
weɪt
Example: wait
Say: “wait”
First word: "wait"

Word 2

w
wɛt
Example: wet
Say: “wet”
Second word: "wet"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: weɪt vs wɛt

Minimal Pair #8

Practice distinguishing between "late" and "let" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
leɪt
Example: late
Say: “late”
First word: "late"

Word 2

l
lɛt
Example: let
Say: “let”
Second word: "let"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: leɪt vs lɛt

Minimal Pair #9

Practice distinguishing between "pain" and "pen" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
peɪn
Example: pain
Say: “pain”
First word: "pain"

Word 2

p
pɛn
Example: pen
Say: “pen”
Second word: "pen"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: peɪn vs pɛn

Minimal Pair #10

Practice distinguishing between "main" and "man" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
meɪn
Example: main
Say: “main”
First word: "main"

Word 2

m
mæn
Example: man
Say: “man”
Second word: "man"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: meɪn vs mæn

Minimal Pair #11

Practice distinguishing between "bed" and "bad" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
bɛd
Example: bed
Say: “bed”
First word: "bed"

Word 2

b
bæd
Example: bad
Say: “bad”
Second word: "bad"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: bɛd vs bæd

Minimal Pair #12

Practice distinguishing between "pen" and "pan" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
pɛn
Example: pen
Say: “pen”
First word: "pen"

Word 2

p
pæn
Example: pan
Say: “pan”
Second word: "pan"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: pɛn vs pæn

Minimal Pair #13

Practice distinguishing between "get" and "gate" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

g
gɛt
Example: get
Say: “get”
First word: "get"

Word 2

g
geɪt
Example: gate
Say: “gate”
Second word: "gate"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: gɛt vs geɪt

Minimal Pair #14

Practice distinguishing between "let" and "late" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
lɛt
Example: let
Say: “let”
First word: "let"

Word 2

l
leɪt
Example: late
Say: “late”
Second word: "late"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: lɛt vs leɪt

Minimal Pair #15

Practice distinguishing between "sit" and "seat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
sɪt
Example: sit
Say: “sit”
First word: "sit"

Word 2

s
siːt
Example: seat
Say: “seat”
Second word: "seat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: sɪt vs siːt

Minimal Pair #16

Practice distinguishing between "ship" and "sheep" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
ʃɪp
Example: ship
Say: “ship”
First word: "ship"

Word 2

s
ʃiːp
Example: sheep
Say: “sheep”
Second word: "sheep"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: ʃɪp vs ʃiːp

Minimal Pair #17

Practice distinguishing between "live" and "leave" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
lɪv
Example: live
Say: “live”
First word: "live"

Word 2

l
liːv
Example: leave
Say: “leave”
Second word: "leave"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: lɪv vs liːv

Minimal Pair #18

Practice distinguishing between "bit" and "beat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
bɪt
Example: bit
Say: “bit”
First word: "bit"

Word 2

b
biːt
Example: beat
Say: “beat”
Second word: "beat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: bɪt vs biːt

Minimal Pair #19

Practice distinguishing between "see" and "say" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
siː
Example: see
Say: “see”
First word: "see"

Word 2

s
seɪ
Example: say
Say: “say”
Second word: "say"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: siː vs seɪ

Minimal Pair #20

Practice distinguishing between "meet" and "mate" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
miːt
Example: meet
Say: “meet”
First word: "meet"

Word 2

m
meɪt
Example: mate
Say: “mate”
Second word: "mate"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: miːt vs meɪt

Minimal Pair #21

Practice distinguishing between "feel" and "fail" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
fiːl
Example: feel
Say: “feel”
First word: "feel"

Word 2

f
feɪl
Example: fail
Say: “fail”
Second word: "fail"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: fiːl vs feɪl

Minimal Pair #22

Practice distinguishing between "deep" and "day" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

d
diːp
Example: deep
Say: “deep”
First word: "deep"

Word 2

d
deɪ
Example: day
Say: “day”
Second word: "day"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: diːp vs deɪ

Minimal Pair #23

Practice distinguishing between "hot" and "hat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
hɑt
Example: hot
Say: “hot”
First word: "hot"

Word 2

h
hæt
Example: hat
Say: “hat”
Second word: "hat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: hɑt vs hæt

Minimal Pair #24

Practice distinguishing between "lot" and "late" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
lɑt
Example: lot
Say: “lot”
First word: "lot"

Word 2

l
leɪt
Example: late
Say: “late”
Second word: "late"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: lɑt vs leɪt

Minimal Pair #25

Practice distinguishing between "stop" and "step" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
stɑp
Example: stop
Say: “stop”
First word: "stop"

Word 2

s
stɛp
Example: step
Say: “step”
Second word: "step"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: stɑp vs stɛp

Minimal Pair #26

Practice distinguishing between "job" and "jab" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

j
dʒɑb
Example: job
Say: “job”
First word: "job"

Word 2

j
dʒæb
Example: jab
Say: “jab”
Second word: "jab"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: dʒɑb vs dʒæb

Minimal Pair #27

Practice distinguishing between "go" and "got" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

g
goʊ
Example: go
Say: “go”
First word: "go"

Word 2

g
gɑt
Example: got
Say: “got”
Second word: "got"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: goʊ vs gɑt

Minimal Pair #28

Practice distinguishing between "home" and "hot" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
hoʊm
Example: home
Say: “home”
First word: "home"

Word 2

h
hɑt
Example: hot
Say: “hot”
Second word: "hot"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: hoʊm vs hɑt

Minimal Pair #29

Practice distinguishing between "boat" and "but" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
boʊt
Example: boat
Say: “boat”
First word: "boat"

Word 2

b
bʌt
Example: but
Say: “but”
Second word: "but"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: boʊt vs bʌt

Minimal Pair #30

Practice distinguishing between "know" and "now" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

k
noʊ
Example: know
Say: “know”
First word: "know"

Word 2

n
naʊ
Example: now
Say: “now”
Second word: "now"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: noʊ vs naʊ

Minimal Pair #31

Practice distinguishing between "pull" and "pool" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
pʊl
Example: pull
Say: “pull”
First word: "pull"

Word 2

p
pul
Example: pool
Say: “pool”
Second word: "pool"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: pʊl vs pul

Minimal Pair #32

Practice distinguishing between "look" and "Luke" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
lʊk
Example: look
Say: “look”
First word: "look"

Word 2

L
luk
Example: Luke
Say: “Luke”
Second word: "Luke"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: lʊk vs luk

Minimal Pair #33

Practice distinguishing between "full" and "fool" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
fʊl
Example: full
Say: “full”
First word: "full"

Word 2

f
ful
Example: fool
Say: “fool”
Second word: "fool"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: fʊl vs ful

Minimal Pair #34

Practice distinguishing between "foot" and "food" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
fʊt
Example: foot
Say: “foot”
First word: "foot"

Word 2

f
fud
Example: food
Say: “food”
Second word: "food"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: fʊt vs fud

Minimal Pair #35

Practice distinguishing between "pool" and "pull" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
pul
Example: pool
Say: “pool”
First word: "pool"

Word 2

p
pʊl
Example: pull
Say: “pull”
Second word: "pull"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: pul vs pʊl

Minimal Pair #36

Practice distinguishing between "Luke" and "look" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

L
luk
Example: Luke
Say: “Luke”
First word: "Luke"

Word 2

l
lʊk
Example: look
Say: “look”
Second word: "look"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: luk vs lʊk

Minimal Pair #37

Practice distinguishing between "fool" and "full" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
ful
Example: fool
Say: “fool”
First word: "fool"

Word 2

f
fʊl
Example: full
Say: “full”
Second word: "full"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: ful vs fʊl

Minimal Pair #38

Practice distinguishing between "food" and "foot" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
fud
Example: food
Say: “food”
First word: "food"

Word 2

f
fʊt
Example: foot
Say: “foot”
Second word: "foot"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: fud vs fʊt

Minimal Pair #39

Practice distinguishing between "cup" and "cap" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
kʌp
Example: cup
Say: “cup”
First word: "cup"

Word 2

c
kæp
Example: cap
Say: “cap”
Second word: "cap"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: kʌp vs kæp

Minimal Pair #40

Practice distinguishing between "luck" and "lock" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
lʌk
Example: luck
Say: “luck”
First word: "luck"

Word 2

l
lɑk
Example: lock
Say: “lock”
Second word: "lock"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: lʌk vs lɑk

Minimal Pair #41

Practice distinguishing between "hut" and "hot" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
hʌt
Example: hut
Say: “hut”
First word: "hut"

Word 2

h
hɑt
Example: hot
Say: “hot”
Second word: "hot"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: hʌt vs hɑt

Minimal Pair #42

Practice distinguishing between "but" and "bat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
bʌt
Example: but
Say: “but”
First word: "but"

Word 2

b
bæt
Example: bat
Say: “bat”
Second word: "bat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: bʌt vs bæt

Minimal Pair #43

Practice distinguishing between "use (verb)" and "ooze" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

u
juz
Example: use (verb)
Say: “use (verb)”
First word: "use (verb)"

Word 2

o
uz
Example: ooze
Say: “ooze”
Second word: "ooze"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: juz vs uz

Minimal Pair #44

Practice distinguishing between "few" and "food" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
fju
Example: few
Say: “few”
First word: "few"

Word 2

f
fud
Example: food
Say: “food”
Second word: "food"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: fju vs fud

Minimal Pair #45

Practice distinguishing between "cute" and "coot" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
kjut
Example: cute
Say: “cute”
First word: "cute"

Word 2

c
kut
Example: coot
Say: “coot”
Second word: "coot"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: kjut vs kut

Minimal Pair #46

Practice distinguishing between "caught" and "cot" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
kɔt
Example: caught
Say: “caught”
First word: "caught"

Word 2

c
kɑt
Example: cot
Say: “cot”
Second word: "cot"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: kɔt vs kɑt

Minimal Pair #47

Practice distinguishing between "talk" and "tock" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
tɔk
Example: talk
Say: “talk”
First word: "talk"

Word 2

t
tɑk
Example: tock
Say: “tock”
Second word: "tock"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: tɔk vs tɑk

Minimal Pair #48

Practice distinguishing between "law" and "low" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
lɔ
Example: law
Say: “law”
First word: "law"

Word 2

l
loʊ
Example: low
Say: “low”
Second word: "low"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: lɔ vs loʊ

Minimal Pair #49

Practice distinguishing between "dawn" and "Don" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

d
dɔn
Example: dawn
Say: “dawn”
First word: "dawn"

Word 2

D
dɑn
Example: Don
Say: “Don”
Second word: "Don"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: dɔn vs dɑn

Minimal Pair #50

Practice distinguishing between "now" and "no" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

n
naʊ
Example: now
Say: “now”
First word: "now"

Word 2

n
noʊ
Example: no
Say: “no”
Second word: "no"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: naʊ vs noʊ

Minimal Pair #51

Practice distinguishing between "down" and "dawn" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

d
daʊn
Example: down
Say: “down”
First word: "down"

Word 2

d
dɔn
Example: dawn
Say: “dawn”
Second word: "dawn"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: daʊn vs dɔn

Minimal Pair #52

Practice distinguishing between "house (noun)" and "house (verb)" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
haʊs
Example: house (noun)
Say: “house (noun)”
First word: "house (noun)"

Word 2

h
haʊz
Example: house (verb)
Say: “house (verb)”
Second word: "house (verb)"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: haʊs vs haʊz

Minimal Pair #53

Practice distinguishing between "found" and "phoned" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
faʊnd
Example: found
Say: “found”
First word: "found"

Word 2

p
foʊnd
Example: phoned
Say: “phoned”
Second word: "phoned"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: faʊnd vs foʊnd

Minimal Pair #54

Practice distinguishing between "boil" and "bile" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
bɔɪl
Example: boil
Say: “boil”
First word: "boil"

Word 2

b
baɪl
Example: bile
Say: “bile”
Second word: "bile"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: bɔɪl vs baɪl

Minimal Pair #55

Practice distinguishing between "toy" and "tie" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
tɔɪ
Example: toy
Say: “toy”
First word: "toy"

Word 2

t
taɪ
Example: tie
Say: “tie”
Second word: "tie"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: tɔɪ vs taɪ

Minimal Pair #56

Practice distinguishing between "coin" and "kine" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
kɔɪn
Example: coin
Say: “coin”
First word: "coin"

Word 2

k
kaɪn
Example: kine
Say: “kine”
Second word: "kine"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: kɔɪn vs kaɪn

Minimal Pair #57

Practice distinguishing between "price" and "prize" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
praɪs
Example: price
Say: “price”
First word: "price"

Word 2

p
praɪz
Example: prize
Say: “prize”
Second word: "prize"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: praɪs vs praɪz

Minimal Pair #58

Practice distinguishing between "high" and "how" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
haɪ
Example: high
Say: “high”
First word: "high"

Word 2

h
haʊ
Example: how
Say: “how”
Second word: "how"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: haɪ vs haʊ

Minimal Pair #59

Practice distinguishing between "my" and "may" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
maɪ
Example: my
Say: “my”
First word: "my"

Word 2

m
meɪ
Example: may
Say: “may”
Second word: "may"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: maɪ vs meɪ

Minimal Pair #60

Practice distinguishing between "time" and "team" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
taɪm
Example: time
Say: “time”
First word: "time"

Word 2

t
tiːm
Example: team
Say: “team”
Second word: "team"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: taɪm vs tiːm

Minimal Pair #61

Practice distinguishing between "dear" and "dare" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

d
dɪə
Example: dear
Say: “dear”
First word: "dear"

Word 2

d
deə
Example: dare
Say: “dare”
Second word: "dare"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: dɪə vs deə

Minimal Pair #62

Practice distinguishing between "fear" and "fair" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
fɪə
Example: fear
Say: “fear”
First word: "fear"

Word 2

f
feə
Example: fair
Say: “fair”
Second word: "fair"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: fɪə vs feə

Minimal Pair #63

Practice distinguishing between "here" and "hair" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
hɪə
Example: here
Say: “here”
First word: "here"

Word 2

h
heə
Example: hair
Say: “hair”
Second word: "hair"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: hɪə vs heə

Minimal Pair #64

Practice distinguishing between "care" and "core" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
keə
Example: care
Say: “care”
First word: "care"

Word 2

c
kɔː
Example: core
Say: “core”
Second word: "core"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: keə vs kɔː

Minimal Pair #65

Practice distinguishing between "fair" and "fear" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
feə
Example: fair
Say: “fair”
First word: "fair"

Word 2

f
fɪə
Example: fear
Say: “fear”
Second word: "fear"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: feə vs fɪə

Minimal Pair #66

Practice distinguishing between "where" and "were" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
weə
Example: where
Say: “where”
First word: "where"

Word 2

w
wɜː
Example: were
Say: “were”
Second word: "were"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: weə vs wɜː

Minimal Pair #67

Practice distinguishing between "poor" and "pour" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
pʊə
Example: poor
Say: “poor”
First word: "poor"

Word 2

p
pɔː
Example: pour
Say: “pour”
Second word: "pour"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: pʊə vs pɔː

Minimal Pair #68

Practice distinguishing between "sure" and "shore" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
ʃʊə
Example: sure
Say: “sure”
First word: "sure"

Word 2

s
ʃɔː
Example: shore
Say: “shore”
Second word: "shore"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: ʃʊə vs ʃɔː

Minimal Pair #69

Practice distinguishing between "tour" and "tore" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
tʊə
Example: tour
Say: “tour”
First word: "tour"

Word 2

t
tɔː
Example: tore
Say: “tore”
Second word: "tore"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: tʊə vs tɔː

Minimal Pair #70

Practice distinguishing between "ben" and "pen" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bɛn/
Example: ben
Say: “ben”
First word: "ben"

Word 2

p
/pɛn/
Example: pen
Say: “pen”
Second word: "pen"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bɛn/ vs /pɛn/

Minimal Pair #71

Practice distinguishing between "bat" and "pat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bæt/
Example: bat
Say: “bat”
First word: "bat"

Word 2

p
/pæt/
Example: pat
Say: “pat”
Second word: "pat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bæt/ vs /pæt/

Minimal Pair #72

Practice distinguishing between "bin" and "pin" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bɪn/
Example: bin
Say: “bin”
First word: "bin"

Word 2

p
/pɪn/
Example: pin
Say: “pin”
Second word: "pin"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bɪn/ vs /pɪn/

Minimal Pair #73

Practice distinguishing between "day" and "they" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

d
/deɪ/
Example: day
Say: “day”
First word: "day"

Word 2

t
/ðeɪ/
Example: they
Say: “they”
Second word: "they"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /deɪ/ vs /ðeɪ/

Minimal Pair #74

Practice distinguishing between "dare" and "there" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

d
/dɛr/
Example: dare
Say: “dare”
First word: "dare"

Word 2

t
/ðɛr/
Example: there
Say: “there”
Second word: "there"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /dɛr/ vs /ðɛr/

Minimal Pair #75

Practice distinguishing between "doze" and "those" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

d
/doʊz/
Example: doze
Say: “doze”
First word: "doze"

Word 2

t
/ðoʊz/
Example: those
Say: “those”
Second word: "those"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /doʊz/ vs /ðoʊz/

Minimal Pair #76

Practice distinguishing between "bad" and "bat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bæd/
Example: bad
Say: “bad”
First word: "bad"

Word 2

b
/bæt/
Example: bat
Say: “bat”
Second word: "bat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bæd/ vs /bæt/

Minimal Pair #77

Practice distinguishing between "fan" and "van" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
/fæn/
Example: fan
Say: “fan”
First word: "fan"

Word 2

v
/væn/
Example: van
Say: “van”
Second word: "van"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /fæn/ vs /væn/

Minimal Pair #78

Practice distinguishing between "fine" and "vine" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
/faɪn/
Example: fine
Say: “fine”
First word: "fine"

Word 2

v
/vaɪn/
Example: vine
Say: “vine”
Second word: "vine"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /faɪn/ vs /vaɪn/

Minimal Pair #79

Practice distinguishing between "safe" and "save" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/seɪf/
Example: safe
Say: “safe”
First word: "safe"

Word 2

s
/seɪv/
Example: save
Say: “save”
Second word: "save"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /seɪf/ vs /seɪv/

Minimal Pair #80

Practice distinguishing between "gap" and "cap" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

g
/gæp/
Example: gap
Say: “gap”
First word: "gap"

Word 2

c
/kæp/
Example: cap
Say: “cap”
Second word: "cap"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /gæp/ vs /kæp/

Minimal Pair #81

Practice distinguishing between "bag" and "back" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bæg/
Example: bag
Say: “bag”
First word: "bag"

Word 2

b
/bæk/
Example: back
Say: “back”
Second word: "back"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bæg/ vs /bæk/

Minimal Pair #82

Practice distinguishing between "gold" and "cold" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

g
/goʊld/
Example: gold
Say: “gold”
First word: "gold"

Word 2

c
/koʊld/
Example: cold
Say: “cold”
Second word: "cold"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /goʊld/ vs /koʊld/

Minimal Pair #83

Practice distinguishing between "hat" and "at" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
/hæt/
Example: hat
Say: “hat”
First word: "hat"

Word 2

a
/æt/
Example: at
Say: “at”
Second word: "at"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /hæt/ vs /æt/

Minimal Pair #84

Practice distinguishing between "heat" and "eat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
/hiːt/
Example: heat
Say: “heat”
First word: "heat"

Word 2

e
/iːt/
Example: eat
Say: “eat”
Second word: "eat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /hiːt/ vs /iːt/

Minimal Pair #85

Practice distinguishing between "hill" and "ill" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
/hɪl/
Example: hill
Say: “hill”
First word: "hill"

Word 2

i
/ɪl/
Example: ill
Say: “ill”
Second word: "ill"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /hɪl/ vs /ɪl/

Minimal Pair #86

Practice distinguishing between "behind" and "bind" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bɪˈhaɪnd/
Example: behind
Say: “behind”
First word: "behind"

Word 2

b
/baɪnd/
Example: bind
Say: “bind”
Second word: "bind"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bɪˈhaɪnd/ vs /baɪnd/

Minimal Pair #87

Practice distinguishing between "job" and "chop" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

j
/dʒɑb/
Example: job
Say: “job”
First word: "job"

Word 2

c
/tʃɑp/
Example: chop
Say: “chop”
Second word: "chop"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /dʒɑb/ vs /tʃɑp/

Minimal Pair #88

Practice distinguishing between "Jess" and "yes" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

J
/dʒɛs/
Example: Jess
Say: “Jess”
First word: "Jess"

Word 2

y
/jɛs/
Example: yes
Say: “yes”
Second word: "yes"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /dʒɛs/ vs /jɛs/

Minimal Pair #89

Practice distinguishing between "age" and "ash" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

a
/eɪdʒ/
Example: age
Say: “age”
First word: "age"

Word 2

a
/æʃ/
Example: ash
Say: “ash”
Second word: "ash"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /eɪdʒ/ vs /æʃ/

Minimal Pair #90

Practice distinguishing between "ridge" and "rich" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

r
/rɪdʒ/
Example: ridge
Say: “ridge”
First word: "ridge"

Word 2

r
/rɪtʃ/
Example: rich
Say: “rich”
Second word: "rich"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /rɪdʒ/ vs /rɪtʃ/

Minimal Pair #91

Practice distinguishing between "cap" and "gap" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
/kæp/
Example: cap
Say: “cap”
First word: "cap"

Word 2

g
/gæp/
Example: gap
Say: “gap”
Second word: "gap"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /kæp/ vs /gæp/

Minimal Pair #92

Practice distinguishing between "back" and "bag" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bæk/
Example: back
Say: “back”
First word: "back"

Word 2

b
/bæg/
Example: bag
Say: “bag”
Second word: "bag"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bæk/ vs /bæg/

Minimal Pair #93

Practice distinguishing between "cold" and "gold" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
/koʊld/
Example: cold
Say: “cold”
First word: "cold"

Word 2

g
/goʊld/
Example: gold
Say: “gold”
Second word: "gold"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /koʊld/ vs /goʊld/

Minimal Pair #94

Practice distinguishing between "light" and "right" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
/laɪt/
Example: light
Say: “light”
First word: "light"

Word 2

r
/raɪt/
Example: right
Say: “right”
Second word: "right"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /laɪt/ vs /raɪt/

Minimal Pair #95

Practice distinguishing between "low" and "row" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
/loʊ/
Example: low
Say: “low”
First word: "low"

Word 2

r
/roʊ/
Example: row
Say: “row”
Second word: "row"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /loʊ/ vs /roʊ/

Minimal Pair #96

Practice distinguishing between "lead" and "read" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
/lid/
Example: lead
Say: “lead”
First word: "lead"

Word 2

r
/rid/
Example: read
Say: “read”
Second word: "read"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /lid/ vs /rid/

Minimal Pair #97

Practice distinguishing between "belly" and "berry" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/ˈbɛli/
Example: belly
Say: “belly”
First word: "belly"

Word 2

b
/ˈbɛri/
Example: berry
Say: “berry”
Second word: "berry"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈbɛli/ vs /ˈbɛri/

Minimal Pair #98

Practice distinguishing between "lip" and "rip" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
/lɪp/
Example: lip
Say: “lip”
First word: "lip"

Word 2

r
/rɪp/
Example: rip
Say: “rip”
Second word: "rip"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /lɪp/ vs /rɪp/

Minimal Pair #99

Practice distinguishing between "man" and "van" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/mæn/
Example: man
Say: “man”
First word: "man"

Word 2

v
/væn/
Example: van
Say: “van”
Second word: "van"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /mæn/ vs /væn/

Minimal Pair #100

Practice distinguishing between "met" and "net" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/mɛt/
Example: met
Say: “met”
First word: "met"

Word 2

n
/nɛt/
Example: net
Say: “net”
Second word: "net"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /mɛt/ vs /nɛt/

Minimal Pair #101

Practice distinguishing between "mop" and "pop" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/mɑp/
Example: mop
Say: “mop”
First word: "mop"

Word 2

p
/pɑp/
Example: pop
Say: “pop”
Second word: "pop"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /mɑp/ vs /pɑp/

Minimal Pair #102

Practice distinguishing between "mom" and "bomb" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/mɑm/
Example: mom
Say: “mom”
First word: "mom"

Word 2

b
/bɑm/
Example: bomb
Say: “bomb”
Second word: "bomb"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /mɑm/ vs /bɑm/

Minimal Pair #103

Practice distinguishing between "mine" and "nine" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/maɪn/
Example: mine
Say: “mine”
First word: "mine"

Word 2

n
/naɪn/
Example: nine
Say: “nine”
Second word: "nine"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /maɪn/ vs /naɪn/

Minimal Pair #104

Practice distinguishing between "seem" and "seen" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/sim/
Example: seem
Say: “seem”
First word: "seem"

Word 2

s
/sin/
Example: seen
Say: “seen”
Second word: "seen"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /sim/ vs /sin/

Minimal Pair #105

Practice distinguishing between "nine" and "line" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

n
/naɪn/
Example: nine
Say: “nine”
First word: "nine"

Word 2

l
/laɪn/
Example: line
Say: “line”
Second word: "line"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /naɪn/ vs /laɪn/

Minimal Pair #106

Practice distinguishing between "net" and "let" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

n
/nɛt/
Example: net
Say: “net”
First word: "net"

Word 2

l
/lɛt/
Example: let
Say: “let”
Second word: "let"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /nɛt/ vs /lɛt/

Minimal Pair #107

Practice distinguishing between "knee" and "lee" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

k
/ni/
Example: knee
Say: “knee”
First word: "knee"

Word 2

l
/li/
Example: lee
Say: “lee”
Second word: "lee"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ni/ vs /li/

Minimal Pair #108

Practice distinguishing between "know" and "low" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

k
/noʊ/
Example: know
Say: “know”
First word: "know"

Word 2

l
/loʊ/
Example: low
Say: “low”
Second word: "low"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /noʊ/ vs /loʊ/

Minimal Pair #109

Practice distinguishing between "run" and "rung" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

r
/rʌn/
Example: run
Say: “run”
First word: "run"

Word 2

r
/rʌŋ/
Example: rung
Say: “rung”
Second word: "rung"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /rʌn/ vs /rʌŋ/

Minimal Pair #110

Practice distinguishing between "sin" and "sing" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/sɪn/
Example: sin
Say: “sin”
First word: "sin"

Word 2

s
/sɪŋ/
Example: sing
Say: “sing”
Second word: "sing"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /sɪn/ vs /sɪŋ/

Minimal Pair #111

Practice distinguishing between "sin" and "sing" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/sɪn/
Example: sin
Say: “sin”
First word: "sin"

Word 2

s
/sɪŋ/
Example: sing
Say: “sing”
Second word: "sing"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /sɪn/ vs /sɪŋ/

Minimal Pair #112

Practice distinguishing between "run" and "rung" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

r
/rʌn/
Example: run
Say: “run”
First word: "run"

Word 2

r
/rʌŋ/
Example: rung
Say: “rung”
Second word: "rung"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /rʌn/ vs /rʌŋ/

Minimal Pair #113

Practice distinguishing between "fan" and "fang" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
/fæn/
Example: fan
Say: “fan”
First word: "fan"

Word 2

f
/fæŋ/
Example: fang
Say: “fang”
Second word: "fang"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /fæn/ vs /fæŋ/

Minimal Pair #114

Practice distinguishing between "thin" and "thing" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
/θɪn/
Example: thin
Say: “thin”
First word: "thin"

Word 2

t
/θɪŋ/
Example: thing
Say: “thing”
Second word: "thing"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /θɪn/ vs /θɪŋ/

Minimal Pair #115

Practice distinguishing between "sink" and "sing" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/sɪŋk/
Example: sink
Say: “sink”
First word: "sink"

Word 2

s
/sɪŋ/
Example: sing
Say: “sing”
Second word: "sing"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /sɪŋk/ vs /sɪŋ/

Minimal Pair #116

Practice distinguishing between "pen" and "ben" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
/pɛn/
Example: pen
Say: “pen”
First word: "pen"

Word 2

b
/bɛn/
Example: ben
Say: “ben”
Second word: "ben"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /pɛn/ vs /bɛn/

Minimal Pair #117

Practice distinguishing between "pat" and "bat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
/pæt/
Example: pat
Say: “pat”
First word: "pat"

Word 2

b
/bæt/
Example: bat
Say: “bat”
Second word: "bat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /pæt/ vs /bæt/

Minimal Pair #118

Practice distinguishing between "pin" and "bin" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
/pɪn/
Example: pin
Say: “pin”
First word: "pin"

Word 2

b
/bɪn/
Example: bin
Say: “bin”
Second word: "bin"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /pɪn/ vs /bɪn/

Minimal Pair #119

Practice distinguishing between "right" and "light" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

r
/raɪt/
Example: right
Say: “right”
First word: "right"

Word 2

l
/laɪt/
Example: light
Say: “light”
Second word: "light"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /raɪt/ vs /laɪt/

Minimal Pair #120

Practice distinguishing between "run" and "won" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

r
/rʌn/
Example: run
Say: “run”
First word: "run"

Word 2

w
/wʌn/
Example: won
Say: “won”
Second word: "won"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /rʌn/ vs /wʌn/

Minimal Pair #121

Practice distinguishing between "read" and "lead" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

r
/rid/
Example: read
Say: “read”
First word: "read"

Word 2

l
/lid/
Example: lead
Say: “lead”
Second word: "lead"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /rid/ vs /lid/

Minimal Pair #122

Practice distinguishing between "fry" and "fly" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

f
/fraɪ/
Example: fry
Say: “fry”
First word: "fry"

Word 2

f
/flaɪ/
Example: fly
Say: “fly”
Second word: "fly"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /fraɪ/ vs /flaɪ/

Minimal Pair #123

Practice distinguishing between "sip" and "zip" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/sɪp/
Example: sip
Say: “sip”
First word: "sip"

Word 2

z
/zɪp/
Example: zip
Say: “zip”
Second word: "zip"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /sɪp/ vs /zɪp/

Minimal Pair #124

Practice distinguishing between "bus" and "buzz" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bʌs/
Example: bus
Say: “bus”
First word: "bus"

Word 2

b
/bʌz/
Example: buzz
Say: “buzz”
Second word: "buzz"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bʌs/ vs /bʌz/

Minimal Pair #125

Practice distinguishing between "sing" and "thing" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/sɪŋ/
Example: sing
Say: “sing”
First word: "sing"

Word 2

t
/θɪŋ/
Example: thing
Say: “thing”
Second word: "thing"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /sɪŋ/ vs /θɪŋ/

Minimal Pair #126

Practice distinguishing between "sink" and "think" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/sɪŋk/
Example: sink
Say: “sink”
First word: "sink"

Word 2

t
/θɪŋk/
Example: think
Say: “think”
Second word: "think"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /sɪŋk/ vs /θɪŋk/

Minimal Pair #127

Practice distinguishing between "time" and "dime" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
taɪm
Example: time
Say: “time”
First word: "time"

Word 2

d
daɪm
Example: dime
Say: “dime”
Second word: "dime"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: taɪm vs daɪm

Minimal Pair #128

Practice distinguishing between "to" and "do" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
tu
Example: to
Say: “to”
First word: "to"

Word 2

d
du
Example: do
Say: “do”
Second word: "do"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: tu vs du

Minimal Pair #129

Practice distinguishing between "bat" and "bad" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
bæt
Example: bat
Say: “bat”
First word: "bat"

Word 2

b
bæd
Example: bad
Say: “bad”
Second word: "bad"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: bæt vs bæd

Minimal Pair #130

Practice distinguishing between "tie" and "die" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
taɪ
Example: tie
Say: “tie”
First word: "tie"

Word 2

d
daɪ
Example: die
Say: “die”
Second word: "die"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: taɪ vs daɪ

Minimal Pair #131

Practice distinguishing between "van" and "fan" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

v
/væn/
Example: van
Say: “van”
First word: "van"

Word 2

f
/fæn/
Example: fan
Say: “fan”
Second word: "fan"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /væn/ vs /fæn/

Minimal Pair #132

Practice distinguishing between "vine" and "fine" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

v
/vaɪn/
Example: vine
Say: “vine”
First word: "vine"

Word 2

f
/faɪn/
Example: fine
Say: “fine”
Second word: "fine"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /vaɪn/ vs /faɪn/

Minimal Pair #133

Practice distinguishing between "save" and "safe" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/seɪv/
Example: save
Say: “save”
First word: "save"

Word 2

s
/seɪf/
Example: safe
Say: “safe”
Second word: "safe"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /seɪv/ vs /seɪf/

Minimal Pair #134

Practice distinguishing between "wet" and "vet" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
/wɛt/
Example: wet
Say: “wet”
First word: "wet"

Word 2

v
/vɛt/
Example: vet
Say: “vet”
Second word: "vet"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /wɛt/ vs /vɛt/

Minimal Pair #135

Practice distinguishing between "wine" and "vine" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
/waɪn/
Example: wine
Say: “wine”
First word: "wine"

Word 2

v
/vaɪn/
Example: vine
Say: “vine”
Second word: "vine"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /waɪn/ vs /vaɪn/

Minimal Pair #136

Practice distinguishing between "why" and "Y" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
/waɪ/
Example: why
Say: “why”
First word: "why"

Word 2

Y
/waɪ/
Example: Y
Say: “Y”
Second word: "Y"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /waɪ/ vs /waɪ/

Minimal Pair #137

Practice distinguishing between "west" and "vest" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
/wɛst/
Example: west
Say: “west”
First word: "west"

Word 2

v
/vɛst/
Example: vest
Say: “vest”
Second word: "vest"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /wɛst/ vs /vɛst/

Minimal Pair #138

Practice distinguishing between "yes" and "Jess" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

y
/jes/
Example: yes
Say: “yes”
First word: "yes"

Word 2

J
/dʒes/
Example: Jess
Say: “Jess”
Second word: "Jess"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /jes/ vs /dʒes/

Minimal Pair #139

Practice distinguishing between "yacht" and "lot" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

y
/jɑːt/
Example: yacht
Say: “yacht”
First word: "yacht"

Word 2

l
/lɑːt/
Example: lot
Say: “lot”
Second word: "lot"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /jɑːt/ vs /lɑːt/

Minimal Pair #140

Practice distinguishing between "use (noun)" and "juice" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

u
/juːs/
Example: use (noun)
Say: “use (noun)”
First word: "use (noun)"

Word 2

j
/dʒuːs/
Example: juice
Say: “juice”
Second word: "juice"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /juːs/ vs /dʒuːs/

Minimal Pair #141

Practice distinguishing between "yet" and "wet" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

y
/jet/
Example: yet
Say: “yet”
First word: "yet"

Word 2

w
/wet/
Example: wet
Say: “wet”
Second word: "wet"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /jet/ vs /wet/

Minimal Pair #142

Practice distinguishing between "zip" and "sip" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

z
/zɪp/
Example: zip
Say: “zip”
First word: "zip"

Word 2

s
/sɪp/
Example: sip
Say: “sip”
Second word: "sip"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /zɪp/ vs /sɪp/

Minimal Pair #143

Practice distinguishing between "buzz" and "bus" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

b
/bʌz/
Example: buzz
Say: “buzz”
First word: "buzz"

Word 2

b
/bʌs/
Example: bus
Say: “bus”
Second word: "bus"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /bʌz/ vs /bʌs/

Minimal Pair #144

Practice distinguishing between "zeal" and "seal" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

z
/zil/
Example: zeal
Say: “zeal”
First word: "zeal"

Word 2

s
/sil/
Example: seal
Say: “seal”
Second word: "seal"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /zil/ vs /sil/

Minimal Pair #145

Practice distinguishing between "prize" and "price" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
/praɪz/
Example: prize
Say: “prize”
First word: "prize"

Word 2

p
/praɪs/
Example: price
Say: “price”
Second word: "price"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /praɪz/ vs /praɪs/

Minimal Pair #146

Practice distinguishing between "they" and "day" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
/ðeɪ/
Example: they
Say: “they”
First word: "they"

Word 2

d
/deɪ/
Example: day
Say: “day”
Second word: "day"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ðeɪ/ vs /deɪ/

Minimal Pair #147

Practice distinguishing between "there" and "dare" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
/ðɛr/
Example: there
Say: “there”
First word: "there"

Word 2

d
/dɛr/
Example: dare
Say: “dare”
Second word: "dare"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ðɛr/ vs /dɛr/

Minimal Pair #148

Practice distinguishing between "those" and "doze" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
/ðoʊz/
Example: those
Say: “those”
First word: "those"

Word 2

d
/doʊz/
Example: doze
Say: “doze”
Second word: "doze"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ðoʊz/ vs /doʊz/

Minimal Pair #149

Practice distinguishing between "think" and "sink" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
θɪŋk
Example: think
Say: “think”
First word: "think"

Word 2

s
sɪŋk
Example: sink
Say: “sink”
Second word: "sink"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: θɪŋk vs sɪŋk

Minimal Pair #150

Practice distinguishing between "thin" and "fin" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
θɪn
Example: thin
Say: “thin”
First word: "thin"

Word 2

f
fɪn
Example: fin
Say: “fin”
Second word: "fin"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: θɪn vs fɪn

Minimal Pair #151

Practice distinguishing between "three" and "free" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
θri
Example: three
Say: “three”
First word: "three"

Word 2

f
fri
Example: free
Say: “free”
Second word: "free"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: θri vs fri

Minimal Pair #152

Practice distinguishing between "thumb" and "sum" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

t
θʌm
Example: thumb
Say: “thumb”
First word: "thumb"

Word 2

s
sʌm
Example: sum
Say: “sum”
Second word: "sum"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: θʌm vs sʌm

Minimal Pair #153

Practice distinguishing between "ship" and "sip" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/ʃɪp/
Example: ship
Say: “ship”
First word: "ship"

Word 2

s
/sɪp/
Example: sip
Say: “sip”
Second word: "sip"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ʃɪp/ vs /sɪp/

Minimal Pair #154

Practice distinguishing between "sheet" and "seat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/ʃit/
Example: sheet
Say: “sheet”
First word: "sheet"

Word 2

s
/sit/
Example: seat
Say: “seat”
Second word: "seat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ʃit/ vs /sit/

Minimal Pair #155

Practice distinguishing between "mash" and "mass" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/mæʃ/
Example: mash
Say: “mash”
First word: "mash"

Word 2

m
/mæs/
Example: mass
Say: “mass”
Second word: "mass"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /mæʃ/ vs /mæs/

Minimal Pair #156

Practice distinguishing between "shore" and "sore" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/ʃɔr/
Example: shore
Say: “shore”
First word: "shore"

Word 2

s
/sɔr/
Example: sore
Say: “sore”
Second word: "sore"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ʃɔr/ vs /sɔr/

Minimal Pair #157

Practice distinguishing between "ship" and "sip" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/ʃɪp/
Example: ship
Say: “ship”
First word: "ship"

Word 2

s
/sɪp/
Example: sip
Say: “sip”
Second word: "sip"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ʃɪp/ vs /sɪp/

Minimal Pair #158

Practice distinguishing between "sheet" and "seat" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/ʃit/
Example: sheet
Say: “sheet”
First word: "sheet"

Word 2

s
/sit/
Example: seat
Say: “seat”
Second word: "seat"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ʃit/ vs /sit/

Minimal Pair #159

Practice distinguishing between "mash" and "mass" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/mæʃ/
Example: mash
Say: “mash”
First word: "mash"

Word 2

m
/mæs/
Example: mass
Say: “mass”
Second word: "mass"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /mæʃ/ vs /mæs/

Minimal Pair #160

Practice distinguishing between "shore" and "sore" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
/ʃɔr/
Example: shore
Say: “shore”
First word: "shore"

Word 2

s
/sɔr/
Example: sore
Say: “sore”
Second word: "sore"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ʃɔr/ vs /sɔr/

Minimal Pair #161

Practice distinguishing between "measure" and "messer" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/ˈmɛʒər/
Example: measure
Say: “measure”
First word: "measure"

Word 2

m
/ˈmɛsər/
Example: messer
Say: “messer”
Second word: "messer"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈmɛʒər/ vs /ˈmɛsər/

Minimal Pair #162

Practice distinguishing between "vision" and "vission" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

v
/ˈvɪʒən/
Example: vision
Say: “vision”
First word: "vision"

Word 2

v
/ˈvɪʃən/
Example: vission
Say: “vission”
Second word: "vission"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈvɪʒən/ vs /ˈvɪʃən/

Minimal Pair #163

Practice distinguishing between "azure" and "asher" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

a
/ˈæʒər/
Example: azure
Say: “azure”
First word: "azure"

Word 2

a
/ˈæʃər/
Example: asher
Say: “asher”
Second word: "asher"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈæʒər/ vs /ˈæʃər/

Minimal Pair #164

Practice distinguishing between "leisure" and "leecher" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
/ˈliːʒər/
Example: leisure
Say: “leisure”
First word: "leisure"

Word 2

l
/ˈliːtʃər/
Example: leecher
Say: “leecher”
Second word: "leecher"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈliːʒər/ vs /ˈliːtʃər/

Minimal Pair #165

Practice distinguishing between "measure" and "messer" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

m
/ˈmɛʒər/
Example: measure
Say: “measure”
First word: "measure"

Word 2

m
/ˈmɛsər/
Example: messer
Say: “messer”
Second word: "messer"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈmɛʒər/ vs /ˈmɛsər/

Minimal Pair #166

Practice distinguishing between "vision" and "vission" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

v
/ˈvɪʒən/
Example: vision
Say: “vision”
First word: "vision"

Word 2

v
/ˈvɪʃən/
Example: vission
Say: “vission”
Second word: "vission"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈvɪʒən/ vs /ˈvɪʃən/

Minimal Pair #167

Practice distinguishing between "azure" and "asher" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

a
/ˈæʒər/
Example: azure
Say: “azure”
First word: "azure"

Word 2

a
/ˈæʃər/
Example: asher
Say: “asher”
Second word: "asher"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈæʒər/ vs /ˈæʃər/

Minimal Pair #168

Practice distinguishing between "leisure" and "leecher" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
/ˈliːʒər/
Example: leisure
Say: “leisure”
First word: "leisure"

Word 2

l
/ˈliːtʃər/
Example: leecher
Say: “leecher”
Second word: "leecher"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /ˈliːʒər/ vs /ˈliːtʃər/

Minimal Pair #169

Practice distinguishing between "chair" and "share" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
/tʃɛr/
Example: chair
Say: “chair”
First word: "chair"

Word 2

s
/ʃɛr/
Example: share
Say: “share”
Second word: "share"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /tʃɛr/ vs /ʃɛr/

Minimal Pair #170

Practice distinguishing between "choose" and "shoes" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
/tʃuz/
Example: choose
Say: “choose”
First word: "choose"

Word 2

s
/ʃuz/
Example: shoes
Say: “shoes”
Second word: "shoes"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /tʃuz/ vs /ʃuz/

Minimal Pair #171

Practice distinguishing between "catch" and "cash" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
/kætʃ/
Example: catch
Say: “catch”
First word: "catch"

Word 2

c
/kæʃ/
Example: cash
Say: “cash”
Second word: "cash"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /kætʃ/ vs /kæʃ/

Minimal Pair #172

Practice distinguishing between "witch" and "wish" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
/wɪtʃ/
Example: witch
Say: “witch”
First word: "witch"

Word 2

w
/wɪʃ/
Example: wish
Say: “wish”
Second word: "wish"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: /wɪtʃ/ vs /wɪʃ/

Minimal Pair #173

Practice distinguishing between "work" and "worked" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
wɜrk
Example: work
Say: “work”
First word: "work"

Word 2

w
wɜrkt
Example: worked
Say: “worked”
Second word: "worked"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: wɜrk vs wɜrkt

Minimal Pair #174

Practice distinguishing between "help" and "helped" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

h
hɛlp
Example: help
Say: “help”
First word: "help"

Word 2

h
hɛlpt
Example: helped
Say: “helped”
Second word: "helped"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: hɛlp vs hɛlpt

Minimal Pair #175

Practice distinguishing between "stop" and "stopped" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
stɑp
Example: stop
Say: “stop”
First word: "stop"

Word 2

s
stɑpt
Example: stopped
Say: “stopped”
Second word: "stopped"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: stɑp vs stɑpt

Minimal Pair #176

Practice distinguishing between "play" and "played" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

p
pleɪ
Example: play
Say: “play”
First word: "play"

Word 2

p
pleɪd
Example: played
Say: “played”
Second word: "played"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: pleɪ vs pleɪd

Minimal Pair #177

Practice distinguishing between "call" and "called" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

c
kɔl
Example: call
Say: “call”
First word: "call"

Word 2

c
kɔld
Example: called
Say: “called”
Second word: "called"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: kɔl vs kɔld

Minimal Pair #178

Practice distinguishing between "live" and "lived" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

l
lɪv
Example: live
Say: “live”
First word: "live"

Word 2

l
lɪvd
Example: lived
Say: “lived”
Second word: "lived"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: lɪv vs lɪvd

Minimal Pair #179

Practice distinguishing between "want" and "wanted" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

w
wɑnt
Example: want
Say: “want”
First word: "want"

Word 2

w
wɑntɪd
Example: wanted
Say: “wanted”
Second word: "wanted"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: wɑnt vs wɑntɪd

Minimal Pair #180

Practice distinguishing between "need" and "needed" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

n
nid
Example: need
Say: “need”
First word: "need"

Word 2

n
nidɪd
Example: needed
Say: “needed”
Second word: "needed"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: nid vs nidɪd

Minimal Pair #181

Practice distinguishing between "start" and "started" - these words differ by one sound

Word 1

s
stɑrt
Example: start
Say: “start”
First word: "start"

Word 2

s
stɑrtɪd
Example: started
Say: “started”
Second word: "started"

Practice tip: Try saying both words alternately to hear the difference clearly. Focus on the contrasting sounds: stɑrt vs stɑrtɪd