When it comes to speaking with a British accent, one of the first things you’ll need to master is how to pronounce the word “are” correctly. In this guide, we will provide you with tips, examples, and variations of saying “are” in both formal and informal contexts. Whether you’re aiming to sound more British or simply want to expand your linguistic skills, this guide will help you on your journey.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Are”
In formal settings, such as business meetings, presentations, or academic environments, it is important to have a clear and precise pronunciation of “are.” Here are some tips:
1.1 Received Pronunciation (RP)
Received Pronunciation, commonly known as RP, is a prestigious accent often associated with the upper-class in England. When pronouncing “are” in RP, follow these guidelines:
- Breathe and speak from your diaphragm to project your voice.
- Produce a clear sound for the “a” by placing your tongue relaxed and low in the mouth, rather than high or forward.
- Enunciate the final “r” sound with a slight throat constriction.
- Avoid overemphasis or elongation of the vowel.
- Express confidence and formality in your tone.
Example: “Our meeting will are at 3 p.m.”
1.2 Estuary English
Estuary English is an accent commonly heard in and around London. It is a more relaxed and less formal version of RP, regarded as a contemporary accent in England. To pronounce “are” in Estuary English:
- Slightly modify the “a” sound, allowing the tongue to be positioned slightly higher in the mouth than in RP. This will create a less formal tone.
- Ensure the “r” sound is pronounced softly or dropped entirely.
- Maintain a natural speech rhythm and tempo.
Example: “The books are on the shelf.”
2. Informal Ways to Say “Are”
Informal conversations often require a more relaxed and casual pronunciation of “are.” Here are a few variations:
2.1 General British Accent
While accents can vary regionally, a general British accent shared across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland prevails in informal situations. To say “are” in a general British accent:
- Shorten the “a” sound, making it less pronounced and more relaxed.
- Completely drop the “r” sound, particularly in the middle or at the end of words.
- Adopt a laid-back and friendly intonation.
Example: “You are going to love this movie.”
2.2 Cockney Accent
The Cockney accent is typical of working-class Londoners and often associated with the East End. It has a distinct pronunciation of “are.” To capture the Cockney sound:
- Replace the “a” sound with a short and sharp “uh” sound.
- Drop the “r” sound, particularly at the end of words.
- Playfully add glottal stops, indicated by a slight pause or catch in the throat when pronouncing words.
Example: “We uh going on a trip.”
3. Regional Variations
While the above variations cover the most common ways to say “are” in a British accent, it is important to note that accents can vary significantly across regions in the United Kingdom. It’s impossible to cover every regional nuance in this guide, but here are a few notable ones:
3.1 Scottish Accent
In Scotland, the pronunciation of “are” can exhibit regional variations. In general:
- Shorten the vowel sound, making it closer to a short “uh” sound.
- The “r” sound may be rolled slightly, particularly in certain regions.
- Adapt to the specific regional accents accordingly.
Example: “You uh coming to the party?”
3.2 Welsh Accent
Wales has its own distinct accents. When saying “are” in a Welsh accent:
- Produce a short and clipped “a” sound.
- Avoid emphasizing the “r” sound, letting it remain subtle or dropped in certain contexts.
- Adapt to the specific regional accents if necessary.
Example: “The sheep are in the field.”
Remember, accents can vary even within regions, and it’s essential to keep in mind that these descriptions are general guidelines. To accurately mimic any accent, it’s beneficial to listen to native speakers and practice imitating their pronunciation and intonation.
By following the tips and examples provided in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to sounding more British and confidently saying “are” in various contexts. Remember to practice consistently and embrace the joy of exploring different accents. Enjoy the journey!
