erre
/ere/from spelling rules
erre is the name of the letter R in Spanish.
The term is used specifically to name the letter R within the Spanish alphabet.
How do you pronounce it?
/ere/
Did you know?
- Because the strong erre sound is so distinct, it is frequently used by musicians to create 'percussive' vocal effects in Flamenco singing.
- While erre is the name of the letter, the sound it represents is known as the 'alveolar trill'. It is one of the most iconic sounds of the Spanish language and is often used by non-speakers to mimic the language in cinema.
- The letter erre has two distinct sounds in Spanish: a single tap and a strong trill. Because the trill is difficult for many learners, there is a common Spanish phrase erre con erre cigarro used in tongue twisters to practice the sound.
Examples in context
- La letra erre es muy difícil.The letter R is very difficult.
- ¿Cómo se escribe la erre?How do you write the R?
- Esa palabra tiene una erre fuerte.That word has a strong R.
Example conversation
A teacher is helping a student with pronunciation.
- JavierTienes que pronunciar bien la erre.You have to pronounce the R correctly.
- ElenaEs que la erre me cuesta mucho.It's just that the R is very hard for me.
- JavierNo te preocupes, Elena, practica más.Don't worry, Elena, practice more.
- ElenaGracias, Javier, lo intentaré.Thanks, Javier, I will try.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
