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Vowel Minimal Pair

How to Pronounce cat vs cut

Key Pronunciation Contrast

‘Cat’ (⁄kæt⁄) is articulated with the low-front open vowel ⁄æ⁄, while ‘cut’ (⁄kʌt⁄) uses the central-back lax vowel ⁄ʌ⁄.

Contrast: Open front ⁄æ⁄ vs central lax ⁄ʌ⁄

Word 1Full word page➔

cat

⁄kæt⁄

Syllables

CAT

Definition:

Terms relating to animals.

“Mammals need two genes to make the taste receptor for sugar. Studies in various cats (tigers, cheetahs and domestic cats) showed that one of these genes has mutated and no longer works.”
Word 2Full word page➔

cut

⁄kʌt⁄

Syllables

CUT

Definition:

To incise, to cut into the surface of something.

“You must cut this flesh from off his breast.”

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IPA: ⁄kæt⁄

Frequently Asked Questions: cat vs cut

What is the difference in pronunciation between "cat" and "cut"?

‘Cat’ (⁄kæt⁄) is articulated with the low-front open vowel ⁄æ⁄, while ‘cut’ (⁄kʌt⁄) uses the central-back lax vowel ⁄ʌ⁄.

Where does the syllable stress fall in "cat" vs "cut"?

"cat" has 1 syllable(s) (cat) with stress on "CAT". "cut" has 1 syllable(s) (cut) with stress on "CUT".

Why do English learners often confuse "cat" and "cut"?

Learners frequently confuse them due to the close sound contrast: Open front ⁄æ⁄ vs central lax ⁄ʌ⁄. In rapid spoken English, context and vowel duration are the primary differentiators.

What are example sentences for "cat" and "cut"?

Example for "cat": "Mammals need two genes to make the taste receptor for sugar. Studies in various cats (tigers, cheetahs and domestic cats) showed that one of these genes has mutated and no longer works." Example for "cut": "You must cut this flesh from off his breast."