American English: How to pronounce the Word ARE

The video addresses common questions about the word 'are', focusing on its reduction in speech. It explains how native speakers often reduce 'are' to a subtle sound, making it difficult for non-native speakers to hear. The video provides examples of this reduction in sentences and compares it with the word 'were'. It concludes by encouraging viewers to practice and listen for these reductions in native speech.

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.