How to Pronounce close vs close
Key Pronunciation Contrast
‘Close’ (near or intimate) ends with /s/ (⁄kloʊs⁄); ‘close’ (to shut or finish) ends with /z/ (⁄kloʊz⁄).
Contrast: ⁄kloʊs⁄ (near) vs ⁄kloʊz⁄ (to shut)
close
⁄kləʊz⁄
CLOSE
To remove or block an opening, gap or passage through.
close
⁄kləʊz⁄
CLOSE
To remove or block an opening, gap or passage through.
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80 total video examplesFrequently Asked Questions: close vs close
What is the difference in pronunciation between "close" and "close"?
‘Close’ (near or intimate) ends with /s/ (⁄kloʊs⁄); ‘close’ (to shut or finish) ends with /z/ (⁄kloʊz⁄).
Where does the syllable stress fall in "close" vs "close"?
"close" has 1 syllable(s) (close) with stress on "CLOSE". "close" has 1 syllable(s) (close) with stress on "CLOSE".
Why do English learners often confuse "close" and "close"?
Learners frequently confuse them due to the close sound contrast: ⁄kloʊs⁄ (near) vs ⁄kloʊz⁄ (to shut). In rapid spoken English, context and vowel duration are the primary differentiators.
What are example sentences for "close" and "close"?
Example for "close": "Close the door behind you when you leave." Example for "close": "Close the door behind you when you leave."