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How to Pronounce their vs there

Key Pronunciation Contrast

Homophones (⁄ðɛər⁄): ‘their’ shows possession, whereas ‘there’ specifies a location or introduction.

Contrast: Homophones: identical ⁄ðɛər⁄

their

⁄ðɛər⁄

Syllables

THEIR

Definition:

In or at a place or location (stated, implied or otherwise indicated) that is perceived to be away from, or at a relative distance from, the speaker (compare here).

“I know Bristol quite well as I used to live there.”

there

⁄ðɛər⁄

Syllables

THERE

Definition:

In or at a place or location (stated, implied or otherwise indicated) that is perceived to be away from, or at a relative distance from, the speaker (compare here).

“I know Bristol quite well as I used to live there.”

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Frequently Asked Questions: their vs there

What is the difference in pronunciation between "their" and "there"?

Homophones (⁄ðɛər⁄): ‘their’ shows possession, whereas ‘there’ specifies a location or introduction.

Where does the syllable stress fall in "their" vs "there"?

"their" has 1 syllable(s) (their) with stress on "THEIR". "there" has 1 syllable(s) (there) with stress on "THERE".

Why do English learners often confuse "their" and "there"?

Learners frequently confuse them due to the close sound contrast: Homophones: identical ⁄ðɛər⁄. In rapid spoken English, context and vowel duration are the primary differentiators.

What are example sentences for "their" and "there"?

Example for "their": "I know Bristol quite well as I used to live there." Example for "there": "I know Bristol quite well as I used to live there."