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Consonant Contrast

How to Pronounce tank vs thank

Key Pronunciation Contrast

‘Thank’ starts with ⁄θ⁄ (⁄θæŋk⁄); ‘tank’ starts with /t/ (⁄tæŋk⁄).

Contrast: ⁄θ⁄ vs /t/

tank

⁄tæŋk⁄

Syllables

TANK

Definition:

A closed container for liquids or gases.

“The propane is stored in these tanks.”

thank

⁄θæŋk⁄

Syllables

THANK

Definition:

singular of thanks (“an expression of appreciation or gratitude; grateful feelings or thoughts; favour, goodwill, graciousness”)

“If ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same.”

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Frequently Asked Questions: tank vs thank

What is the difference in pronunciation between "tank" and "thank"?

‘Thank’ starts with ⁄θ⁄ (⁄θæŋk⁄); ‘tank’ starts with /t/ (⁄tæŋk⁄).

Where does the syllable stress fall in "tank" vs "thank"?

"tank" has 1 syllable(s) (tank) with stress on "TANK". "thank" has 1 syllable(s) (thank) with stress on "THANK".

Why do English learners often confuse "tank" and "thank"?

Learners frequently confuse them due to the close sound contrast: ⁄θ⁄ vs /t/. In rapid spoken English, context and vowel duration are the primary differentiators.

What are example sentences for "tank" and "thank"?

Example for "tank": "The propane is stored in these tanks." Example for "thank": "If ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same."