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Vowel Minimal Pair

How to Pronounce law vs low

Key Pronunciation Contrast

‘Law’ (⁄lɔː⁄) has open rounded ⁄ɔː⁄; ‘low’ (⁄loʊ⁄) is a closing diphthong gliding towards ⁄ʊ⁄.

Contrast: Monophthong ⁄ɔː⁄ vs diphthong ⁄oʊ⁄

law

⁄lɔː⁄

Syllables

LAW

Definition:

The body of binding rules and regulations, customs, and standards established in a community by its legislative and judicial authorities.

“Not unnaturally, "Auntie" took this communication in bad part.[…]Next day she[…]tried to recover her ward by the hair of the head. Then, thwarted, the wretched creature went to the police for help; she was versed in the law, and perhaps had spared no pains to keep on good terms with the local constabulary.”

low

⁄loʊ⁄

Syllables

LOW

Definition:

Situated close to, or even below, the ground or another normal reference plane; not high or lofty.

“standing on low ground”

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Frequently Asked Questions: law vs low

What is the difference in pronunciation between "law" and "low"?

‘Law’ (⁄lɔː⁄) has open rounded ⁄ɔː⁄; ‘low’ (⁄loʊ⁄) is a closing diphthong gliding towards ⁄ʊ⁄.

Where does the syllable stress fall in "law" vs "low"?

"law" has 1 syllable(s) (law) with stress on "LAW". "low" has 1 syllable(s) (low) with stress on "LOW".

Why do English learners often confuse "law" and "low"?

Learners frequently confuse them due to the close sound contrast: Monophthong ⁄ɔː⁄ vs diphthong ⁄oʊ⁄. In rapid spoken English, context and vowel duration are the primary differentiators.

What are example sentences for "law" and "low"?

Example for "law": "Not unnaturally, "Auntie" took this communication in bad part.[…]Next day she[…]tried to recover her ward by the hair of the head. Then, thwarted, the wretched creature went to the police for help; she was versed in the law, and perhaps had spared no pains to keep on good terms with the local constabulary." Example for "low": "standing on low ground"