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How to Pronounce leak vs leek

Key Pronunciation Contrast

"leak" and "leek" are exact English homophones with 100% identical phonetic pronunciation (⁄liːk⁄). They share the exact same sound from start to finish but differ in spelling, origin, and meaning.

leak

⁄liːk⁄

Syllables

LEAK

Definition:

A crack, crevice, fissure, or hole which admits water or other fluid, or lets it escape.

“a leak in a roof”

leek

⁄liːk⁄

Syllables

LEEK

Definition:

A vegetable of variety Allium ampeloprasum, having edible leaves and an onion-like bulb but with a milder flavour than the onion.

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Frequently Asked Questions: leak vs leek

What is the difference in pronunciation between "leak" and "leek"?

"leak" and "leek" are exact English homophones with 100% identical phonetic pronunciation (⁄liːk⁄). They share the exact same sound from start to finish but differ in spelling, origin, and meaning.

Where does the syllable stress fall in "leak" vs "leek"?

"leak" has 1 syllable(s) (leak) with stress on "LEAK". "leek" has 1 syllable(s) (leek) with stress on "LEEK".

Why do English learners often confuse "leak" and "leek"?

These words share similar consonant frameworks and vowel lengths, making them difficult for non-native speakers to distinguish without back-to-back ear training.

What are example sentences for "leak" and "leek"?

Example for "leak": "a leak in a roof" Example for "leek": "In Sologne, there is a field, and depending on the year, it is a cornfield or a leek field."