American English: How to pronounce the Word ARE

What is the main reason non-native speakers might not hear the word 'are' in a sentence?

• It is always pronounced clearly.

• It is replaced by another word.

• It is pronounced very quickly and softly.

• It is often omitted in casual speech.

In which of the following sentences is 'are' most likely to be reduced?

• The cookies are delicious.

• The cookies are in the jar.

• The cookies are not here.

• The cookies are on the table.

How is the word 'are' often written in a reduced form?

• As a contraction.

• As a separate word.

• As a different word.

• As a longer phrase.

What is a key difference in pronunciation between 'are' and 'were' when reduced?

• 'Are' has a 'w' sound at the beginning.

• Neither has a distinct sound.

• 'Were' has a 'w' sound at the beginning.

• Both sound exactly the same.

What should you listen for to distinguish 'are' from 'were' in fast speech?

• The pitch of the word.

• The context of the sentence.

• The presence of a 'w' sound.

• The length of the word.