This week’s question:

“How do you pronounce “vein” and “vain”. I can never get it right. Thank you! Sincerely, a Chinese student: D”

Good news: VANE and VEIN are both pronounced the same way. Three sounds: V-long A-N.

To say these words, start by gently biting your bottom lip and keep the air moving out of your mouth for the V.  Next, say the long A sound by opening your mouth wide then move to smiling lips.  End with the N sound by putting your tongue to the back of the top, front, teeth.  Be sure that the air moves through your nose for the N.