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Consonant Contrast

How to Pronounce thank vs tank

Key Pronunciation Contrast

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

Contrast: ⁄θ⁄ vs /t/

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.”

tank

⁄tæŋk⁄

Syllables

TANK

Definition:

A closed container for liquids or gases.

“The propane is stored in these tanks.”

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Frequently Asked Questions: thank vs tank

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

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

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

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

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

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 "thank" and "tank"?

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." Example for "tank": "The propane is stored in these tanks."