English pronunciation · Words Starting with W
Why Pronunciation
Why is pronounced WY, IPA /ˈhwaɪ/.
WY
US /ˈhwaɪ/ · UK /ˈwaɪ/
Syllables: WY (1 syllable)
adverb and conjunction: For what reason.
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Why in a Sentence
- Nobody could explain why the alarm went off.
- Why did you not say so earlier?
- That is the why of it, if not the how.
Common Mispronunciations of Why
Not VY
Round the lips for a w rather than touching them to the teeth. German and Slavic speakers often start this word with a v.
Not WEE
The y at the end spells the long i of my, so the word rhymes with buy. It never comes out as a long ee.
Tip: Many American speakers add a breath before the w, closer to hwy, and keep why and Wye distinct from Y. Most British speakers do not.
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