Learning English pronunciation can be difficult, especially when it comes to words that have exceptions to the rules. One such word is "hour". So, how do you properly pronounce it?
The word "hour" is typically pronounced as "ow-er" in American English and "au-er" in British English. This pronunciation can be difficult for non-native English speakers because the "h" is silent, and the "ou" sounds like "ow".
The word "hour" comes from the Old French word "hore", which was derived from the Latin word "hora". In Latin, the "h" was pronounced, hence the confusion in English pronunciation today.
Here are some tips to help you master the proper pronunciation of "hour":
Practice saying the word slowly and emphasizing the "ow-er" or "au-er" sounds.
Listen to native English speakers pronounce the word and try to imitate their pronunciation.
Read English texts out loud to practice your pronunciation in context.
Use online resources, such as pronunciation videos and audio files, to help you improve your pronunciation.
Non-native English speakers often mispronounce "hour" as "h-owe-r" or "h-ur". It's important to be aware of these incorrect pronunciations so that you can avoid them and speak English fluently.
Remember, the key to proper pronunciation is practice and the willingness to learn new skills. Don't give up, and keep practicing your English pronunciation. With time and effort, you can master even the most difficult English words, including "hour".
