Consonant Contrast
How to Pronounce lock vs rock
Key Pronunciation Contrast
‘Lock’ (⁄lɑːk⁄) uses /l/; ‘rock’ (⁄rɑːk⁄) uses /r/.
Contrast: /l/ vs /r/
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lock
⁄lɒk⁄
Syllables
LOCK
Definition:
Something used for fastening, which can only be opened with a key or combination.
“"Give me the key," said my mother; and though the lock was very stiff, she had turned it and thrown back the lid in a twinkling.”
“The face of the cliff is solid rock.”
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Frequently Asked Questions: lock vs rock
What is the difference in pronunciation between "lock" and "rock"?
‘Lock’ (⁄lɑːk⁄) uses /l/; ‘rock’ (⁄rɑːk⁄) uses /r/.
Where does the syllable stress fall in "lock" vs "rock"?
"lock" has 1 syllable(s) (lock) with stress on "LOCK". "rock" has 1 syllable(s) (rock) with stress on "ROCK".
Why do English learners often confuse "lock" and "rock"?
Learners frequently confuse them due to the close sound contrast: /l/ vs /r/. In rapid spoken English, context and vowel duration are the primary differentiators.
What are example sentences for "lock" and "rock"?
Example for "lock": ""Give me the key," said my mother; and though the lock was very stiff, she had turned it and thrown back the lid in a twinkling." Example for "rock": "The face of the cliff is solid rock."