Get the correct pronunciation of these words: ewe, awe & aye

In terms of pronunciation, these are some of the numerous English words that can embarrass any second learner of the language maybe because there is no connection between their spellings and pronunciations. As a result, this article, with the use homophonic words, teaches second learners of English how to pronounce these words correctly.

1. Ewe

Ewe is the name of a female sheep, especially when fully mature. This word is pronounced as "you". In other words, "you" and "ewe" are homophones, that is, they are pronounced the same way but differ in meaning and spelling. It is phonetically transcribed as /ju:/, which is the exact transcription of the word, you.

2. Awe

This word can function as a noun and a verb. As a noun, awe means a strong feeling of fear, admiration, wonder, reverence etc., caused by that which is grand or very powerful. For example, “The vastness of the forest filled me with awe.”

As a verb, awe means to fill someone with awe. If you are awed by someone or something, they make you feel respectful, amazed or frightened. For example, “Some persons are still awed by Tammy's unusual performance.”

Having its phonetic transcription as /ᴐ:/, awe is pronounced as "or".

3. Aye

If you are in support of Tammy's online English tutorials, say aye! And if you are not, say nay! Lol!  At least this should give you an idea as regards the pronunciation of this word. Aye is an affirmative answer, especially in voting. Aye means yes whereas nay means no. This word is pronounced as “eye” and “I”. Like “eye” and “I”, aye is phonetically transcribed as /aɪ/. This means that these words (eye, I and aye) are homophones.