How to Pronounce wretch vs retch
Key Pronunciation Contrast
"wretch" and "retch" are exact English homophones with 100% identical phonetic pronunciation (⁄rɛtʃ⁄). They share the exact same sound from start to finish but differ in spelling, origin, and meaning.
wretch
⁄rɛtʃ⁄
WRETCH
An unhappy, unfortunate, or miserable person.
retch
⁄ɹɛt͡ʃ⁄
retch
To make or experience an unsuccessful effort to vomit; to strain or spasm, as if to vomit; to gag or nearly vomit.
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60 total video examplesFrequently Asked Questions: wretch vs retch
What is the difference in pronunciation between "wretch" and "retch"?
"wretch" and "retch" are exact English homophones with 100% identical phonetic pronunciation (⁄rɛtʃ⁄). They share the exact same sound from start to finish but differ in spelling, origin, and meaning.
Where does the syllable stress fall in "wretch" vs "retch"?
"wretch" has 1 syllable(s) (wretch) with stress on "WRETCH". "retch" has 1 syllable(s) (retch).
Why do English learners often confuse "wretch" and "retch"?
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 "wretch" and "retch"?
Example for "wretch": "The poor wretch, who lay motionless a long time, just began to recover his senses as a stage-coach came by." Example for "retch": "Here he grew inarticulate with retching."