MinimalPairs
Lessons

Minimal pair · Standard Southern British

British English /f/ vs /v/F /f/ and V /v/

Keep the two labiodental fricatives distinct. Vat is the ordinary container noun, not the tax abbreviation. A Southern British reference bank, not a description of every UK accent. These are editorial word pools supported by pronunciation references, not recovered experimental stimulus lists.

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/f/

Unvoiced lip-and-teeth friction

Air passes between the lower lip and upper teeth. Listen to the first sound.

As infan
/v/

Voiced lip-and-teeth friction

A continuous, voiced consonant. Compare it with the other beginning in the pair.

As invan

WHAT TO LISTEN FOR

A small change.
A different word.

Keep the two labiodental fricatives distinct. Vat is the ordinary container noun, not the tax abbreviation. A Southern British reference bank, not a description of every UK accent. These are editorial word pools supported by pronunciation references, not recovered experimental stimulus lists.

Sound examples

Cached recordings are being prepared
No recording
fan
/fæn/enthusiastic supporter
No recording
fat
/fæt/body fat
No recording
fail
/feɪl/not succeed
No recording
van
/væn/goods vehicle
No recording
vat
/væt/large liquid container
No recording
veil
/veɪl/face covering

6 words. Words stay hidden during practice unless you choose to reveal them.

This guide is free to read. Recordings for these examples are not available yet.

Now, let your ears decide.

Can you hear the difference? Listen to two examples, then decide which sound you hear in a new word. Get feedback after every answer.

Explore listening lessons

Keep the sound. Change the word.

Keep the two labiodental fricatives distinct. Vat is the ordinary container noun, not the tax abbreviation. A Southern British reference bank, not a description of every UK accent. These are editorial word pools supported by pronunciation references, not recovered experimental stimulus lists.

Explore all British English contrasts
🌐 English