Every avid tourist is simply obliged to visit England at least once. Everything here is steeped in history. In the largest city in Europe - London, a huge number of medieval buildings have survived to this day, each of which carries the memory of past centuries. Many people think that the UK is one country, but if you travel often, you should know that it includes 4 magnificent countries: Scotland, Wales, England and Northern Ireland. In each of them you can find something new and interesting for yourself.
Common phrases
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
Yes | Yes | Yes |
No | no | Know |
please | Please | Pliz |
Thanks | Thanks | Sanks |
thank you very much | thank you | Sank yu |
could you … | could you… | where you: |
everything is fine | it's all right | its o:l right |
accept my apologies | please accept my apologies | pl:z, ek'sept may e'polajis |
young man… | young man… | yang man |
young woman… | young lady (miss) | yang lady (mis) |
mister | Sir | sho |
Mr N. | Mister N. … | miste en |
mistress | madam | madam |
excuse me for... | sorry for… | sorry pho |
input | Entrance | Entrance |
exit | exit | Exit |
no need to apologize | no harm done | know ham dan |
open / closed | open/closed | Open/Close |
prohibited | Forbidden | Fyobiden |
sorry | excuse me… | xxuse mi |
let me apply... | I run your sorry… | ai run yo:pa:dong |
Please forgive me | please forgive me | pli:z, fo'giv mi |
sorry (after the act) | I'm sorry | ah um sorry |
sorry (before the action) | excuse me | x'q:z mi |
please! | you are welcome! | y: a: wellcome |
for nothing (not worth it) | it's nothing (not at all) | its nasing (note at o:l) |
thanks in advance | Thank you in advance | senk yu:in edwa:ns |
I have to (want to) thank you! | I must (would like to) thank you | ai mast (oud like that) senk yu |
I am very grateful to you | thak you very much | senk yu: varimach |
Thanks a lot for … | thanks a lot for … | shanks a lot fo.. |
thanks for … | thank you for … | sank yu: pho |
nice to meet you! | glad (nice) to meet you! | Glad (nice) tu mi:t yu |
My name is… | my name is… | my name from |
let me introduce you... | let me introduce you to… | let mi: intro'dews yu: tu |
Let me introduce myself | may i introduce myself? | may ai intro'deuces myself |
to tell | tell | tel |
help | help | help |
show? | show? | show |
please… | please… | pl:z |
bring | bring | bring |
read | read | ri:d |
give | give | give |
may I ask you? | may i ask you? | mei ai ask yu |
Could I ask you … ? | may i ask you to …? | mei ai ask yu:tu |
won't you give me...? | will (would) you please, give me …? | wil (ud) yu: pliz, giv mi |
do you mind...? | do you mind …? | doo: you mind… |
Can I …? (let me …) | may i …? | mei ai |
Can I … ? | can i...? | ken ai |
yes, sure | of course (sure) | ov ko:z (shua) |
Good | all right | o:l wright |
OK | OK (=okay) | okay |
I agree | I agree | ai e'gri |
yes you can | yes, you may (you can) | yes, yu:mei (yu:ken) |
I do not mind | i shouldn't (don't) mind | ah shud note (dount) mind |
I can't | i cannot (i can't) | ai cannot (ai cant) |
unfortunately (unfortunately) I can't | it's a pity (unfortunately), i can't | its e piti (an'fochenatli), ai kent |
it's impossible | it's impossible | it's im'posebl |
I forbid you... | i forbid you to … | ai phobid yu: tu |
in no case! | by no means! | buy know mi:nz |
let me invite you... | may i invite you to… | mei ai in’wait yu: tu |
to the theatre | the theater | zi si'ate |
in a restaurant | restaurant | restaron |
to my place | my place | my place |
let's go (let's go) to ... | let's go to... | let's go to |
with pleasure | with pleasure! | Wiz Pleasure |
I don't mind | i don't mind | ai dount mind |
what a pity | it's a pity | its e pity |
as I understand you | how well i understand you | howl ai anda'stand yu |
don't worry, anything can happen | don't get upset, things do happen | dount get up'set, sings do hapn |
don't worry | don't worry | dont wari |
you did the right thing | you did it right | you did it right |
wait a minute)! | just a moment (a minute) | just e moment (e minit) |
what is your name? | what is your name? | wat from yo: name |
My name is … | my name from | my name is … |
how old are you? | how old are you? | how old a: u |
when were you born? | when were you born? | wen wo yu:bo:n |
where are you from? | where are you from? | uea a:yu:frome |
I'm from … | i am from … | i m from |
where do you live? | where do you live? | wah du yu: liv |
I live in … | i live in … | ai liv in |
what is your native language? | what is your native language? | wat from yo: native langwidge |
I speak- … | i speak… | ah sleep:k |
English | english | English |
Russian | Russian | Russian |
french | french | french |
spanish | Spanish | spanish |
Italian | Italian | Italian |
I speak a little English (Russian) | i speak english (russian) a little bit | ai sleep:k english (russian) e little beat |
Appeals
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
hello) | hello, hi | he'low, hai |
good evening! | good evening! | hood i:wing |
good afternoon! | good afternoon! | gud a:ftanun |
good morning! | good morning! | good morning |
How are you? | how are you? how are you getting on? | How are you? how a:yu gutting he |
how are you? | how are you doing? how are things? | how a: yu: dowing? how a: singz |
more or less | more or less | mo: o: les |
not bad | not too bad | note tou: bad |
everything is fine, thank you | i am very well thank you | ai m very well, senk yu |
I'm fine | i am fine! | ahm fine |
so-so | so-so | sauce sauce |
it doesn't get any worse | couldn't be worse | cudnt bi uyos |
what's new? | what's new? what is the news? | wats new? wat from the news? |
good luck! | all the best! | o:l the best |
goodbye! | good bye! | goodbye |
see you | see you … | si: yu |
tomorrow | tomorrow | tou'morow |
on Monday | on Monday | he is mandi |
At the station
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
How much does it cost? | what are the fares? | wat a:the feas |
one return ticket and one return please | one single and one return ticket for tomorrow, please. | one single and one re'teo ticket pho: tou'morow, pli:z |
two tickets for the train to …, leaving at 6:30 p.m., please | two tickets to …, please, for the six thirty p.m. train | tu tickets tu en, pli:z, pho: the sixx sho:tee pm train |
I want to book tickets in advance | i want to reserve tickets in advance | ai wont tu re’zeo:v tickets in ed’wa:ns |
I have to go and buy a train ticket | i must go and get a ticket for the train (plane, ship) | ai mast go and get e ticket fo: the train (plane, spike) |
where can I buy a ticket for the train (airplane, boat)? | where can i book a ticket for the train (plane, ship)? | wea ken ah buk e ticket fo: the train (plane, spike) |
I would like to pay immediately | I'd like to pay the fares in advance | go like to pay the fas in adva:ns |
I would like a ticket... | I'd like a ticket to the ... | go like e ticket to ze: |
in the car for non-smokers (smokers) | nonsmoker (smoker) | nonsmoke (smoke) |
in a compartment for two | slumber coach | slamba coach |
I would like a bottom seat (bottom shelf) | I'd like a lower berth | id like e lowa bes |
How many pieces of luggage can I take with me for free? | how mane luggage pieces may i take free of charge? | how mani lagij pi:sis mai ai take free:ov cha:j |
where can i check in my luggage? | where can i check my luggage? | wea ken ai chek my lagij |
please take my luggage to... | please take my luggage to … | plz, take my lagij tou |
how to get to the platform? | how does one get to the platform? | how daz one get to the platfo:m |
how long before the train leaves? | how long is it till the train departure? | how lo:ng from it til the train di'pa: cha |
I want to buy tickets for a plane leaving tomorrow at... | i want a ticket for tomorrow flight to… | ai want e ticket fo: tou'morow flight tu |
What are the flights to... | what flights are there to …? | wat flights a: zea tu... |
is there any direct flight to ... the day after tomorrow? | is there any direct flight to … for the day after tomorrow? | from zea ani di'rekt flight tu en fo: ze day a:fta tu' morow |
give me a window seat | give me please a seat by a window | give me: pli:z e si:t bye window |
Where is "here | where is the … | uh from ze |
Arrival Hall | arrivals | e'raivals |
departure hall | departures | di'pa: hour |
baggage check-in | luggage check-in | lagij chakin |
reference | eyquiry office (information desk) | ink'waeri office (infa'mation desk) |
toilet | toilet | toilet |
when does registration start | when does the check-in begin? | wen daz the check-in bi'gin |
flight delayed by two hours | the flight is delayed by two hours | the flight from delaid bye tou: auaz |
where can i return my ticket? | where can i return my ticket? | wea ken ai retcho:n mai ticat |
where are the tickets for the boat sold? | where are boat tickets sold? | WEA A: Boat Tickets Sold |
how much does it cost to travel by sea to... | what is the price of a passage to … | wot from the price ov e pageage tu ... |
I would like a first (second, third) class cabin for two | i'd like the first (second, third) class cabin for two | go like the fe: st (second, sed) kla: s kabin fo: tu |
At customs
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
Passport control. | Passport control | Passport control |
Here is my passport and customs declaration. | Here are my passport and custom declaration | Hie A May Passport & Custom Declaration |
This is my baggage. | Here is my luggage | Hee from mai laggij |
This is a private trip. | It is a private visit | It's from a private visit |
This is a business trip. | It is a business trip | It's from e business trip |
This is a tourist trip. | It is a tourist visit | It's from e tourist visit |
I am traveling as part of a tour group. | I travel with a group | i travel wiz e group |
Sorry I do not understand. | Excuse me, I don't understand | Excus mi, ai dont understand |
I need a translator. | I need an interpreter | AI nid en interpreter |
Call the group leader. | Call for the head of the group | Call for the head of the group |
They meet me. | I will be met | Ai cyl bi mat |
Customs. | Custom | Custom |
I have nothing to declare | I have nothing to declare | Ai hav natfin tou declaya |
These are items for personal use. | these are my personal items | D(Z)iz a May Personl Items |
This is a gift. | This is a present | D(Z)is from e present |
what should be mentioned in the customs declaration? | what is to be mentioned in the customs declaration? | wot from to be mansion in the custom decla'ration |
where can i get my customs documents? | where can i get my customs papers? | wea can ai get my custom paypas |
Walk around the city
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
I'm looking for… | I'm seeking | Aim seekin... |
my hotel | My hotel | My hotel |
tourist office | tourist office | tourist office |
pay phone | street phone | stree fawn |
pharmacy | Chemists | Kemists |
supermarket | supermarket | Supemarket |
post office | post office | |
bank | bank | Bank |
Where is the nearest police station here? | Where is the nearest police office | Ware of The Nearest Policy Office |
Where is the nearest... | Where is the nearest….? | Ware of the nierest … ? |
Metro station | metro station | matrow station |
Bus stop | bus stop | bass stop |
gas station | Petrol station | Patrol station |
Police | Police | Policy |
Market | market | Market |
bakery | bakery | bakery |
Square | Square | Skuea |
The outside | street | Straight |
how to get to the post office (police station)? | which is the way to the post-office (police station)? | wich from the way to the post-office (pa'li: s station) |
it's about a ten minute walk | it's about ten minutes walk | it from e'bout ten minits wo:k |
it's far from here, better go by bus (taxi, car) | it is far off. you had better take a bus (taxi, car) | it from fa: of, yu head beta take e bass (taxi, ka) |
Emergencies
In transport
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
Where can I get a taxi? | Where can I take a taxi? | wea ken i take e taxi |
call a taxi please | Call a taxi, please | cal u taxi plz |
How much does it cost to get to...? | What does it cost to go to? | Wat daz it cost tu go tu? |
To this address, please! | This address, please | D(Z)is edres, pliz |
Take me.. | drive me… | Drive mi… |
Take me to the airport. | Drive me to the airport | Drive my to the airport |
Take me to the train station. | Drive me to the station | Drive mi to the station |
Take me to the hotel... | Drive me to the hotel | Drive me to the hotel |
Take me to a good hotel. | drive me to a good hotel | Drive mi to uh good hotel |
Take me to a cheap hotel. | Drive to a cheap hotel | Drive mi tu e chip hotel |
Take me downtown. | Drive me to the city center | Drive mi to the city sente |
Left | Left | Left |
Right | Right | Wright |
I need to get back. | I need to come back | Ai nid kam back |
Stop here, please. | Stop here, please | Stop chie, plz |
How much do I owe you? | What does it cost? | Wat daz it cost? |
Could you please wait for me? | Could you wait for me, please? | Where you wait, pliz? |
What bus can I take to …? | what bus must i take to reach … question | wat bass mast ai take to ri:h |
how often do the buses run? | how often do the buses run? | how ofeng du the bassis run |
how much does it cost to get to... | what (how much) is the fare ti …? | wot (how mach) from ze fea tu |
i need one ticket | i need one ticket | ai ni:d one ticket |
please tell me where should i go? | tell me, please, where i am to get off? | tel: mi pli:z uea ai em tu get off |
In hotel
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
Registration (administrator). | Registration desk | Registration Desk |
Do you have rooms available? | Do you have a room | doo yu hav e room |
Number for one? | single room | Single room |
Room for two? | double room | Double room |
I would like to book a room. | I want to order a room | Ay want to order e room |
With bath. | with bathroom | whiz buttroom |
With shower. | shower | uh shaue |
Not very expensive. | not expensive | music expansive |
For one night. | For one night | four one night |
For one week. | For a week | Four a week |
How much is the room per night per person? | How does it cost a night per a man | How daz it cost e night pyo man |
I'll pay in cash. | I pay in cash | i pay in cash |
I need an iron. | I need an iron | Ai nid en iron |
Light doesn't work. | Something wrong with light | Samtfing rong whiz light |
Something happened to the shower. | Something wrong with shower | Samtfing rong wiz show |
Something happened to the phone. | What's wrong with telephone? | Watts rong wiz telefone? |
Please wake me up at 8 o'clock. | Wake me up, please at 8 o'clock | Wake me up, pliz at ayt oklok |
Order a taxi, please, for ten o'clock. | Order a taxi, please for 10 o'clock | Order e taxi, pliz fo ten oklok |
Seasons of the day and year
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
time | time | half |
today | today | that day |
yesterday | yesterday | Yestedi |
tomorrow | tomorrow | tou'morow |
the day before yesterday | the day before yestarday | The Day Bifo: Yestedi |
day after tomorrow | the day after tomorrow | ze give a:fta tou morow |
morning | morning | mo:ning |
day | day | day |
evening | evening | i:wing |
night | night | knight |
a week | week | ui:k |
days of the week | days of the week | e daze ov the ui:k |
Monday | Monday | mandi |
Tuesday | tuesday | tw:zdi |
Wednesday | weekday | wendi |
Thursday | Thursday | sezdi |
Friday | friday | Friday |
Saturday | saturday | setadi |
Sunday | Sunday | sandy |
month | month | mans |
January | january | January |
February | february | February |
March | march | ma:h |
April | April | april |
May | may | May |
June | June | ju:n |
July | july | ju:lai |
August | august | about:guest |
September | September | sep'temba |
October | october | ok'touba |
november | november | no'vemba |
December | December | de'semba |
year | year | yea |
season | season | si:zones |
winter | winter | u'inta |
Spring | spring | spin |
summer | summer | herself |
autumn | autumn | o:tm |
century, century | century | century |
leap year | leap year | li:p yea |
tonight | today | ta'night |
It's noon | it is noon | it from nun |
It's midnight | it is midnight | it from midnight |
it's exactly six o'clock (am/pm) | it is six (a.m / p.m) sharp | um from sixx (hey um / pi um) sha:p |
it's ten past seven in the morning (evening) | it is ten minutes pas seven a.m (p.m) | it from ten minits pa:st sewen hey em (pee em) |
I don't have a watch | i haven't a watch | ai havent e watch |
my watch is accurate | my watch is precise (keeps good time) | may watch from pricey (ki:ps good time) |
by my watch... | by my watch … | bye may watch |
what season is it now? | what season is it now? | wat si:zn from it nau |
winter in England is not as cold as in Russia | it's not so cold in England as in Russia | its not sow cold in england ez in russia |
what is the weather today? | what is the weather today | wot iz ze ueza tu'day |
today … the weather | the weather is … today | ze wesa from … today |
good | fine | fine |
clear | bright | bright |
warm | warm | wo:m |
sunny | sunny | sled |
wonderful | marvelous | ma:wellas |
rainy | rainy | rainy |
disgusting | nasty | nastya |
frosty | frosty | frosty |
cold | cold | cold |
Numerals
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
0 | zero | Zero (Nile) |
1 | one | One |
2 | two | That |
3 | three | Tfri |
4 | four | fore |
5 | five | Five |
6 | six | Six |
7 | seven | Savn |
8 | eight | Eith |
9 | nine | nein |
10 | ten | Teng |
11 | eleven | Ilavn |
12 | twelve | Tuelv |
13 | thirteen | Tfetin |
14 | fourteen | Fortin |
15 | fifteen | fiftin |
16 | sixteen | Sistine |
17 | seventeen | Savintin |
18 | eighteen | eytin |
19 | nineteen | nintin |
20 | twenty | Tuenti |
21 | twenty one | Tuenti one |
22 | twenty two | Tuenti tou |
30 | thirty | Tfeti |
40 | fourty | Forti |
50 | fifty | Fifty |
60 | sixty | Sixty |
70 | seventy | savnty |
80 | eighty | Aity |
90 | ninety | Knighty |
100 | one hundred | E Handred (One Handred) |
101 | one hundred and one | E handred and one |
110 | one hundred and ten | E handred and ten |
200 | two hundred | Too handred |
258 | two hundred fifty eight | Too Handred Fifty Ait |
300 | three hundred | Tfri Handred |
400 | four hundred | Fo handred |
500 | five hundred | Five Handred |
600 | six hundred | Six Handred |
700 | seven hundred | Savn Handred |
800 | eight hundred | Eight handred |
900 | nine hundred | Nine handred |
1 000 | one thousand | E tfauzend (One tfauzend) |
1 100 | one thousand and one hundred | E tfausend and handred |
2 000 | two thousand | Too tfausend |
10 000 | ten thousand | Tan tfausand |
1 000 000 | one million | One milien |
10 000 000 | ten million | Teng milien |
In the shop
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
I would like to buy a suit for every day | i'd like to buy a suit for everyday wear | go like tu bai u sue: t fo: evryday uea |
what size is this sweater? | what size is this sweater | wat size from sis su'i: ta |
I want to try on this dress | i want to try on this dress. | ai want to tri he sis dress |
underwear | underwear | andahuea |
jeans | jeans | ji:nz |
pullover | sweater | su'i: ta |
skirt | skirt | sketch |
costume | costume | costume |
dress | dress (frock) | dres (frock) |
blouse | blouse | blues |
I want to buy … | i want to buy … | oh wont to bye |
until what time is this store open? | how long do they keep this shop open? | how long du zei ki:p sis shop open |
cash register | cash desk | cache desk |
Food | foodstuffs | fu:dstafs |
market | market | ma:whale |
will you lower the price? | will you reduce the price? | wil you: ri'dew: with the price |
it's free | it is free of charge (for nothing); Gratis | it from fri:ov cha:j (pho: nosing); gratis |
it's too expensive (cheap) | it is too dear (cheap) | it from that: dia (chi: p) |
by meters | by meters | bye mitas |
it costs … | it costs … | it cost |
by weight | by the pound | buy the pound |
piece by piece | by the piece | bye the pee:s |
what's the price? | what does it cost? | wat daz it cost |
this is for sale | it is sold… | it from sould |
How much does it cost? | what is the price? | wat from the price |
i need a black short sleeve t-shirt | i need a black T-shirt | ai ni: d e black ti shet |
what sneakers would you suggest me? | what sport's shoes will you offer me? | wat spots shu:z wil u: ofa mi |
I want to choose... | I'd like to choose… | go like that chu:z |
soap | soap | soup |
toothpaste | toothpaste | tu:space |
shampoo | shampoo | shampoo |
Show me please … | show me, please… | show mi: pl:z |
let's go shopping | let's go (do) shopping | lats go (doo) shopping |
we don't have much... | we are short of … | ui: a sho: t ov |
we've run out of... | we have run out of… | ui: have run out ov |
meat | meat | mi:t |
canned food | tinned food | tind foo :d |
i need a piece of beef | i need a piece of beef | ai ni:d e pi:s ov bi:f |
let's buy sausage and ham | let's buy some sausage and ham | lats by sam sosidge and ham |
give me ten eggs please | give me please ten eggs | give me: pli:z ten egz |
where can we buy fish? | where can we buy the fish? | wea ken ui: buy the fish? |
I need … | i need … | ah no :d |
head of cabbage | a head of cabbage | e head ov cabij |
new potatoes | new potatoes | new pa'tatoes |
I like fruits | I like fruits | ah like fruits |
give me please … | give me please… | give me: pli:z |
one loaf of rye bread | one loaf of rye (brown) bread | one loaf ov rai (brown) brad |
loaf of white bread | long loaf of white (wheat) bread | long loaf ov white (w:t) brad |
Is this bread fresh or stale? | is this bread new (fresh) or stale? | from sis brad new (fresh) o:stayl |
Cafes, bars, restaurants
Phrase in Russian | Translation | Pronunciation |
---|---|---|
I want to book a table | i want to order a table | ai wont tu o:de:table |
waiter | waiter | ve:ite: |
Do you have free tables? | do you have free tables? | Doo You Have Free: Tables? |
accept my order | accept my order | May ode recipe: |
Your signature dish | specialty of the house | specialty of the house |
Beer | beer | bi:r |
Wine | wine | vine |
What year is the wine? | what year is the wine | in:t ea: from the vine |
Soup | soup | soup |
Vermicelli | spaghetti | spaghetti |
Pasta | macaronis | pasta: with |
Sandwich | sendvich | sandwich |
Cheese / Sour cream (sour) | cheese / sour cream (sour) | chi:z / sour cream (sour) |
Tea coffee | tea/coffee | ti: / coffee: |
Instant coffee | instant coffee | salubl coffee: |
lettuce | ettuce | summer:s |
I do not eat meat | i do not eat meat | ai to notes u:t mi:t |
Check please (bill) | check please | che: k pliz |
Our Russian-English phrasebook consists of common conversation topics:
Greetings - phrases with which you can start any conversation, and just greet a familiar person.
Standard phrases - during the trip you will repeatedly have to turn to passers-by for help, this topic will help you in communicating with the locals. Here are collected common words and phrases that are most often used in the lexicon.
Station - all the necessary phrases and words that have to be used at stations.
Passport control - words that will be useful to you during passport control.
Orientation in the city - walking through some of the English cities, you can get lost. This theme will help you get where you need to go or find a place or place that interests you.
Transport - translation and pronunciation of words and phrases that will be useful to you in public transport, or in order to find the nearest stop.
Hotel - not every hotel understands Russian. Therefore, for a smooth check-in at the hotel and further comfortable living in it, this section will come in handy.
Emergencies - there are also unpleasant moments during the holidays, just at such moments this topic will help you out. You can call for help, call an ambulance or the police, etc.
Dates and time - in order to be in time always and everywhere, you need to know what time it is, but if you forgot your watch, this topic will help passers-by know the time. There is also a translation of months and days of weeks.
Shopping - all the necessary phrases for shopping. Here is a translation of words that will help you with the purchase of products in the market or with the purchase of clothes in the most sophisticated boutiques.
Restaurant - while walking around the city, you got hungry and decided to have a bite to eat in a restaurant? But if you don't know English, you can't even order a cup of coffee. This theme includes the translation of phrases with which you can comfortably spend time in a restaurant without feeling any language barrier.
Numbers and numbers are a very important and frequently used topic. Without knowing how to pronounce numbers and numbers in English, you will not be able to pay for purchases, find out the schedule of certain events, and so on. This thread fixes a similar issue.
The rules of reading in English cannot be called simple. But you have to understand them at the very beginning of training - otherwise you will not be able to move on. Therefore, the rules for reading English for beginners (and for children) are usually set out concisely and clearly - and thanks for that. Transcriptions with examples and other supporting materials (tables, exercises) and, of course, constant practice (reading aloud and listening) are very helpful.
Transcription- this is the transmission of sound in writing with the help of special conventional signs. In transcription, each sound has its own special sign.
True, there are features of transcription of reading in English, which are difficult for Russian-speaking students. These difficulties are due to objective differences in pronunciation in English and Russian. We simply have “the language is different” since childhood, and relearning is always difficult. Especially when you consider that often sounds in English are not pronounced the way they are written. Historically, this has happened because of the large number of dialects in which the same letters and combinations of letters were read differently. But it doesn't make it any easier for us.
Rules for reading transcription in English
Different English teachers solve this difficult task in different ways. For example, they use the so-called “English transcription in Russian”, that is, the recording of English words in Russian letters. Frankly, we do not support this technique. Because it does not allow you to truly learn English pronunciation correctly. One can only very approximately convey the pronunciation of English words in Russian letters. Well, there are some English sounds missing in Russian, and the seemingly similar pronunciation of English and Russian sounds is still different.
Therefore, we are in favor of trying and from the very beginning, nevertheless, to learn the phonetic signs with which transcriptions are recorded. This will help to understand and remember the rules of reading English for beginners. And further English lessons will be given much easier. As for the transmission of English sounds in Russian letters, this technique is needed for transliteration (as), but not for pronunciation training.
Rules for reading vowels in English
As we have already noted, letters and sounds in English often do not match. Moreover, there are much more sounds: 44 sounds for only 26 letters. Linguists even joke about it:
“We write Liverpool and we read Manchester”
So great is the difference between the written word and its pronunciation in English. Well, let's start in order. From syllables that affect the reading of vowels. Syllables in English (as in any other) are open and closed:
- Open syllable ends with vowel. It can be in the middle of a word or be the last one in a word. For example: age, blue, bye, fly, go, etc.
- Closed syllable ends with consonant. It can also be in the middle of a word or be the last in a word. For example: bed, big, box, hungry, stand, etc.
Here is a table that explains how the same letter is read differently in closed and open syllables and in different positions in a word:
Rules for reading consonants in English
Consonants in English are less difficult than vowels. Only some of them (C, S, T, X and G) are read differently depending on the position in the word and neighboring sounds. And for clarity - again the table:
How are letter combinations read in English?
So, after vowels and consonants, we got to letter combinations. Now we will talk about the rules for reading syllables, not individual letters. And rightly so - because in words the letters are just combined, so we rarely have to read individual sounds. And in syllables, sounds influence each other, so the following table contains the basic rules for reading syllables and combinations of consonants:
look, book, cook, good, foot |
[lʊk] [bʊk] [kʊk] [ɡʊd] [fʊt] |
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pool, school, Zoo, too |
[puːl] [skuːl] [zuː] [tuː] |
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see, bee, tree, three, meet |
[ˈsiː] [biː] [triː] [θriː] [miːt] |
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Exceptions: |
tea, meat, eat, read, speak |
[tiː] [miːt] [iːt] [riːd] [spiːk] |
|
bread, head, breakfast, healthy |
[bred] [hed] [ˈbrekfəst] [ˈhelθi] |
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away, play, say, may |
[əˈweɪ] [pleɪ] [ˈseɪ] [meɪ] |
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[ɡreɪ] [ˈðeɪ] |
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ink, thank, monkey, sink, bank |
|
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telephone, phonetics, phrase |
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she, bush, short, dish, fish, sheep, shook |
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catch, kitchen, watch, switch, stretch |
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at the beginning of service words; between vowels: these, that, there, mother, they, with, them, then |
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in combination with th at the beginning and at the end of significant words: thick, thin, thanks, three, think, throw, fifth, tooth |
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what, why, when, while, white, where |
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who, whom, whose, whole, wholly |
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write, wrong, wrist, wrap, wrest, wrap |
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Living and other reading rules in English
All students have different abilities for languages and listening comprehension. If the rules for reading in English are difficult, use one of the tricks:
- Living Rules for Reading English. This is a fairly well-known technique for teaching reading and pronunciation in English. It is designed mainly for children, and the rules of English reading are presented as accessible as possible. Memorization is facilitated by funny verses and tongue twisters. It makes sense to try to interest the child in English from the very beginning of the study.
- Apps for learning English. We recently discussed a number of . In most of them, you can not only read, but also listen to new words. The same function is available in online translators - use it more often.
- Reading rules exercises. There are many of them, but they all come down to training the skill to distinguish between different sounds. For example:
Given a list of words what, who, wrestling, when, why, whose, wrong, where, whom, write, white, which, whole, wrangler). It is necessary to distribute these words into groups with the sound that is pronounced in them: [w], [h] or [r].
Or words from another list ( give, good, cage, ginger, girl, gypsy, gold, gray, grace, beige, gift, gymnastics) distribute into two groups: one with the sound [g], the second - with the sound.
The reading rule exercises may seem complicated, but don't try to do them by memorizing each rule. Better try to understand not the rules, but the principles of reading English sounds. Do a few exercises on the rules of reading to know exactly how some words of the same type are read. The more you read and listen in English, the easier it will be to remember the correct pronunciation.
So our main advice is universal: practice, practice and practice speaking and reading in English will help you learn the language easily and effectively!
There is a myth that only English speakers can read original books. But today you will be convinced that even a beginner is able to master a literary work and understand its meaning (especially if these are adapted books in English for beginners). In addition, you can always click on an unfamiliar word and see its translation.
Why is it so important to read books at an elementary level?
- First, reading books guarantees a deeper immersion in the language than texts from textbooks.
- Secondly, this is a huge plus for self-esteem and motivation, which is very important for further language learning.
- And, finally, this is one of the easiest and most interesting activities, if the appropriate literature is selected.
That's why we found for you the best adapted versions of foreign works(just follow the links). All books have been rewritten by professional linguists and significantly reduced: the average volume of a simplified version is about 10-20 pages, which is quite realistic to read in one evening.
A story about the friendship of two smart mice from France and Great Britain, who are concerned about the fate of Shakespeare's cultural heritage. This book uses direct speech a lot, which means you won't have problems speaking English in the future.
by Mark Twain (beginner - 7 pages)It's hard to find someone who hasn't heard about the thrilling adventures of Tom Sawyer. And reading about them in the original is even more fun. The vocabulary of the story is suitable even for those who "yesterday" began to learn English. |
by Sally M. Stockton (elementary - 6 pages)An ageless tale of a brave archer who fights for justice. After reading the book, you can watch one of the many film adaptations. |
by Andrew Mathews (elementary - 6 pages)A beautiful story about a teenage girl, Susie, living in the shadow of her more attractive friend Donna. Susie hates her freckles and thinks they make her look ugly. Find out how the story ends and whether Susie's attitude towards herself will change. |
by John Escott (elementary - 8 pages)In our selection there was a place for a story about ghosts. The author has a very bright style of narration, so it is difficult to break away from the story. So, you can easily master 8 pages in one go. |
by Mark Twain (elementary - 9 pages)Another work of Mark Twain in our selection will delight you with the story of Huckleberry Finn. A great chance to remember your childhood. The adapted version of this children's book is a real boon for the beginner! |
More than ten pages - success! Simple books in English for beginners
by Peter Benchley (elementary - 12 pages)An adapted version of the famous "Jaws" - a novel about a great white shark attacking vacationers in a resort town (brrr, horror!). The long, common sentences may make the book difficult for the elementary level, but we believe that 12 pages is no problem for you. |
Hercules Serpents Shadows by Timothy Boggs (elementary - 13 pages)If you like the myths of Ancient Greece and stories about exploits, then the story of Hercules made our list just for you. Get ready to replenish your vocabulary a couple dozen epic words. |
by Lewis Carroll (elementary - 13 pages)A wonderful opportunity to once again be in Wonderland and learn the names of the characters in English. The book is read very quickly and easily - tested on my own experience in elementary school. |
by Jack London (elementary - 15 pages)A heartbreaking story about the life of a dog during the gold rush. The book focuses on the relationship between man and animals. In my opinion, this work is one of the best in our selection in terms of plot and style of writing. |
by Roger Lancelyn Green (elementary - 16 pages)A great opportunity to get acquainted with the exploits of King Arthur and the famous knights of the round table. Welcome to the era of the English Middle Ages. |
For those who are serious. Reading books in English for beginners
The second story by Arthur Conan Doyle, dedicated to the investigations of Sherlock Holmes. In the simplified version of the work, the beauty of the story and the mystery of this detective story are perfectly preserved. |
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by Elizabeth Gaskell (pre-intermediate - 51 pages)The novel "North and South" describes the confrontation between manufacturers and aristocrats during the industrial revolution in England. The book will appeal not only to fans of the romantic classics performed by Jane Austen, but also to those who like historical works. |
Books in English with translation for beginners
It seemed like an impenetrable jungle with 26 dangerous predators hiding in the wilds. However, now you will probably easily name and arrange all the letters in the correct order, and even flash a few facts that are far from known to every philologist.
After reading this article, the topic of English transcription and pronunciation will be transferred from the room of fear to the room of laughter. Today's program:
Getting rid of the fear of reading and the study of graphic symbols
. acquaintance, memorization and memorization of diphthongs, vowels and consonants (classification of sounds), arranged in unique tables
. pause for downloading and printing English transcriptions in pictures
. a clear and concise explanation of the use of English sounds by comparing them with Russian relatives
. consolidation of the material covered with a 10-minute video about English transcription
Are you still afraid? Then we are coming to you!
Graphic symbols of transcription in English
Before you plunge into the pool of English reading with your head, we strongly recommend that you heed the advice of experienced divers. Naturally, the child learns to sit first, and then to walk, and not vice versa - the same thing will happen to us: first learn to read the transcription, and then pronounce it (in the head or out loud). You should not get carried away only by reading, otherwise you risk digging into the jungle of theory and breaking away from practice.
First you need to learn and clarify all the questions regarding each transcription symbol. Then listen online as many examples as needed for a clear and precise idea of how this symbol sounds in live speech. Learn strictly from examples of sounds not taken out of context (like Rian's "uh-uh" in the hit "Umbrella"), but in a specific combination of letters found in words. Then, first listen to each new word and only then check what you catch with your ears with the alphabetic dictionary transcription enclosed in square brackets. By the way, about them and other essential companions of transcription:
Square brackets. They signal that inside is exactly transcription.
For example, English is a word, and ["ɪŋglɪʃ] is its transcription;
‘ - main emphasis. Placed BEFORE the stressed vowel: around [əˈraʊnd];
, - secondary accent. Placed BEFORE the vowel: ["hæmˌbɜːgə];
: - vowel length.
The proposed option will seem at first glance not the fastest, but the wise one will not go uphill - the wise one will bypass the mountain. As a result, the time spent is converted into the comfort of speech perception: you no longer need to painfully strain your ears, trying to recognize unfamiliar sounds. And soon unfamiliar "squiggles" will acquire a meaningful sound. Isn't it magical? This is the secret of not only the correct pronunciation, but also the ease of listening to speech.
Foundation of English transcription
Since “it’s great that we are all here today” about the study of transcription, let's get to know it better. There are two types of transcription: phonetic and phonemic. You are mistaken if you think that you have taught/will learn phonetic transcription to a more familiar ear. She, as a rule, is of interest to serious uncles and aunts of linguists, our choice is the study of phonemes (sound language units). Simply put, if two sounds are very similar, but the difference between them can change the meaning of the word, then they form two different phonemes. In Russian, this is not so noticeable, because if you call a cat at least “cat”, even “koooooot”, he will still come, but the meaning of the word will not change. One phoneme for two different sounds. In English, the number will not work: "cot", "caught" and "coat" contain different phonemes. Why so many "smart letters"? In addition to the fact that dictionaries contain phonemic transcriptions, remember this and do not let yourself be confused:
Pope(dad, papal):
1) is a phonetic transcription, it is emphasized here that the first [p], unlike the second, is pronounced with aspiration (aspiration after consonants p, t, k before vowels);
2) is a dictionary (phonemic) transcription.
What else do you need to know about transcription? That there is a different syllable in it:
- open(there is no consonant after the vowel) - New
- closed(after the vowel there is a consonant) - York
- vowel: single - [e], diphthong - [ɔʊ], triphthong - [ɑiə]
- consonant:[d]
English vowel sounds (with online pronunciation)
There are fewer vowels in English than consonants, but more than diphthongs. This picture clearly shows the difference, for example, between the sounds [I] and. Anyone who has even heard of the existence of the imagination will distinguish between the words "fish" and "tree", which, like rebuses, contain the sounds mentioned. You can reread the rules as much as you like, or you can study the transcription in pictures in detail once, which visualizes examples of the use of sounds. For memory training, you can download and even print a picture, this option is provided. For audials, it is possible to hear every sound online in a word after clicking on the speaker icon.
English consonants
Consonant sounds in English are not twin brothers in Russian at all. The articulation of their creation is seriously different. However, we are here not to intimidate clever words, but on the contrary, to make life easier for novice Anglo-lovers, so they painted the voiced consonants in purple, and the deaf ones in blue. When forming the same plural of nouns, it is very important to feel and know the difference. 24 new words serve as a bonus to the learned sounds. We train visual memory and save English transcription in pictures for re-use when needed! Audials still click on the speaker icon under each letter to pronounce sounds in online transcription.
Diphthongs (double vowels) of English
And it would be scary from the presence of 8 diphthongs in English, if not for the wonderful pictures, thanks to which the study turns into an entertaining charade. It is enough to look at the picture, hold your eyes, voice the diphthong by pressing the speaker icon under the letter and practice correct pronunciation. Anyone who appreciates the creative approach to business is allowed to download a picture for a long memory!
From theory to practice
Some time will pass, the dictionary will be covered with a thick layer of dust or removed from the bookmarks (in the electronic version), because the translation of the necessary words is known, the sound is familiar - what other America can you discover there? Do not believe it, it is precisely the clarification of the transcription of what seems to you well-known words that is the very unplowed field that is worth crossing in order to improve the sound of speech.
Let's give an everyday example: the frequently used word "real" has a phonemic transcription a), b) or c)?
The first option is fictional and erroneous, the second and third are British and American pronunciations. What is the moral of this fable?
So that you are not painfully ashamed of your reading, we recommend that you at least briefly familiarize yourself with these tables as follows:
- read the line from left to right;
- listen to the perfect pronunciation of the sound;
- we take a mirror in our hand and train hard (you will surely like to train [æ] or [ð]).
Table of English sounds similar to Russian
These sounds in English transcription do not have to be explained on the fingers.
Sound | Example | Explanations |
---|---|---|
[ɑː] | car, far, garage | Sounds like a long "ahh". Remember the cartoon about Mowgli, where was the wise Kaa? |
[ʌ] | up, but, love | Short sonorous "a". Something similar in Russian "ai". |
[ɔː] | more, board, floor | Sounds like a long "oo". Imagine surprise. |
[b] | book, board, tab | Russian energetic "b". When you are walking down the hallway in the dark and suddenly you stumble |
[g] | green, grace, agree | Russian "g", but not as energetic. |
[f] | forest, atmosphere, enough | Very energetic Russian "f". |
[k] | kill, cord, school | Russian "k". It is breathy before a stressed vowel (if you put your hand in front of your lips and say “keel”, then your palm should feel your fresh breath) |
[m] | mother, lamb | Russian "m". |
[n] | nine, note, intrusion | Russian "n". |
[p] | pub, gallop, open | Russian energetic "p". Before a stressed vowel - with aspiration. |
[v] | vest, vocal, give | Russian "in". |
Now let's look at some tricky examples in practice:
subtle - hardly distinguishable
"Sutl" and only like that, no "subtle" with a drum "b" in the middle.
palm -
palm
Naturally, everyone wants to be under a palm tree, but here it does not smell like it. Not “palm”, not “by:lm”, but “pa:m”, as in “car” and “path”. In company with a palm turn out to be calm- "calm" and balm- "balm".
halt - stop
Drive away the analogy with the German "halt" - the correct pronunciation is "ho: lt".
won - won, won in the past from "win"
Wonderful if you pronounce "won" like "one" - .
of - preposition of belonging
Only a botanist would think of checking the sound of a two-letter word? Oh well. "Of" and no nails? Remember: "Of" is pronounced with "v" at the end. The full form is [ɔv], the reduced form is [əv]. Is always.
Table of English sounds that have something in common with Russian
These sounds cause the greatest temptation and at the same time danger: the relative similarity with the usual pronunciation in Russian threatens with an absolutely wrong sound. Pay enough attention and understand the differences well.
Sound | Example | Explanations |
---|---|---|
[i] | fit, bit, symbol | The middle between "s" and "i". Pronounced very briefly, as at the end of "apchi". |
cheese, tree, sea | What photographers ask us to say on camera. As in the Russian word "syyyr", but with a touching smile. | |
[ɒ] | hot body rock | Average between "o" and "a". That is, by no means the Vologda “o”. |
[u] | cook, foot, woman | It looks like a Russian short "u", but it is easier to pronounce and the lips are slightly stretched. It turns out like "y" with a half smile. No pouty lips. |
true fool shoes | Like the previous sound, but longer. | |
[e] | get, bed, head | Intelligent "e". As in the Russian word "tin". |
[ə] | about, until, alias | Average between unstressed "e" and "a". |
[l] | let, laughter, illegal | Softened Russian "l". Something between the sound of the word "la" and "la". |
[s] | stress, sunday, citizen | Muted Russian "s". He never whistles. Remember the song "Girl" by the Beatles? Now, if their famous inhalation “sssss” is pronounced with an exhalation and briefly, then you get beautiful English [s]. |
[z] | zero, cosmonaut, xenon | Everything is the same as about the sound [s], only loudly. |
[t] | tree, trunk, receipt | Looks like Russian "t". But the tip of the tongue should not be put to the teeth, but to the tubercle behind the upper teeth. |
[d] | drink, ad, diligent | Similarly: like the Russian "d", only the tip of the tongue rests on the tubercle immediately behind the upper teeth. |
[ʃ] | ship, action, special | Between the Russian "sh" and "sh". Does not whistle, because the tongue does not rest with force on the teeth, but gently touches them. |
[ʒ] | pleasure, visual, garage | Softened Russian "zh". Doesn't ring or whistle. |
jump, jungle, logic | We connect English [d] with [ ʒ ] and get a soft "j". | |
inch, chance, catch | We connect English [t] with [ ʃ ] and get something similar to the Russian "h". As in the word "kitsch". | |
[j] | yes, yet, you | Average between "y" and "i". |
[ɪə] | hear, fear, beer | It looks like the Russian "ie" with an accent on "i". |
air, hair, care | Russian "ea" with an accent on "e". | |
make, tray, ace | Russian "ei" with an accent on "e". "I" is pronounced very short. | |
hi, sky, bye | Russian "ai" with an accent on "a". "I" is pronounced very short. | |
[ɔɪ] | boy, joy, coin | Russian "oi" with an accent on "a". "I" is pronounced very short. |
how, cow, hour, our | Russian "au" with an accent on "a". "U" is pronounced very short. | |
fire, wire | Russian "aye" with a strong accent on the first "a". Pronounced quickly and fluently. | |
our flower | Russian "aua" with a strong accent on the first "a". Pronounced quickly and fluently. |
were - were
"Were" is not the same as "where" - . Instead of a diphthong, we use a neutral vowel - , an abbreviated form -.
debt - debt and doubt - doubt
Fans of the group "No doubt" had more than a dozen years left to clarify how the name of their favorite group sounds right. "Debt" and "daubt" are not so easy to pronounce. In English, there is no such Russian-speaking phenomenon as stunning or voicing a consonant, but throw away their words for a sweet soul: it is pronounced and.
good - good, book - book and look - look
The double "o" does not become a long "y" in these words. Therefore, you should not copy the howl of wolves to the moon - speak correctly with a short vowel -,,.
Table of English sounds that have nothing to do with Russian
Practice well in pronouncing these sounds online, at least your speech apparatus should get used to playing them correctly.
Sound | Example | Explanations |
---|---|---|
[ɜː] | earn, her, first | If the Russian "o" wanted to become "ё", it would sound exactly like that. Something like the sound when children tease by sticking out their tongue. But you need to achieve this sound without protruding anything anywhere. To do this, silently prepare your mouth to pronounce "yo", and say "oo" out loud. |
[əu] | go, joke, own | Between the Russian "ou" and "yo" (without "y") with an emphasis on the first sound. "U" is pronounced very short. |
[æ] | cat, apple, compact | It is very important not to confuse this sound with [e], otherwise instead of “bad” (bad) you get “bed” (bed). You need to stretch your lips wide, lower your lower jaw and say “uh” from the heart. |
[h] | hot, head, uphill | Every Russian man knows how to pronounce this sound. When they ask you to “come on, breathe,” then all the men begin to speak English, because they pronounce [h] exactly as they should: a slight exhalation, vaguely reminiscent of “x”. |
[r] | red, random, orange | Russian bears are fluent in English [r]. Try to growl, bending your tongue up. |
[w] | well, what, windows | Fold your lips into a tube and stretch sharply. And now the same thing, but with sound. |
[ŋ] | strong, sing, sink | Children are scolded for talking with their mouths full. But if you listen to the sounds made, then there many consonants sound exactly like [ŋ] . Open your mouth and, without closing it, say "n". |
[θ] | thanks, ethical | Stick your tongue between your teeth and say "s". |
[ð] | they, there, others | Stick your tongue between your teeth and say "h". Best Workout is to say the expression "Is this" 100 times. Never later confuse "z" with [ð]. |
folk - people, folk
The letter "l" has become a victim and is not pronounced at all -.
comb - comb
No "comb" - only "koum". The English "m" and "b" are quite insidious guys who will mess things up more than once. Be alert!
won't - will not - short for "will not"
They were tormented by the question of how the cunning English distinguish between "want" and "won't" in oral speech? It’s just worth pronouncing the negation in the future tense correctly -. That's all the magic.
salmon - salmon
Not "Salmon" and certainly not "Solomon". Salmon is on your mind - as in "cat" and "apple".
Bonus for the most patient
The human brain is the eighth wonder of the world, the deep possibilities of which we can only guess so far. Something important for us now is known for certain: there is a speech center in the brain. There is no special center responsible for reading, but there is for speech. That is why we strongly recommend repeating the words out loud for the hundredth time. It is out loud, and not to yourself, because in this case, muscle memory is also connected. Naturally, words can "live and sound" in your head. The main thing is not to get stuck and stop at the stage of deciphering the transcription symbols, choosing the necessary rule for each sound. In this case, only the speed of a snail is ensured.
If the language is still alive after previous exercises, then we bring to your attention a video that is better to see once than to hear about it 100 times. All phonetic transcription of English in 10 minutes. Clear, concise and very clear.
At the initial stage of learning English, you inevitably have to deal with differences between your native language and a foreign language. Reading in English for beginners, children and adults, is usually one of the first steps in learning. And the first such differences between Russian and English are revealed as soon as you start learning to read in English. You are faced with transcription and rules for reading English. These two concepts are interconnected, since with the help of transcription we can write down and read the sounds that convey vowels and consonants in various combinations. But the rules of reading just explain how letters are pronounced in different environments.
There are a lot of reading rules in English, and they concern both vowels and consonants. In addition, a huge number of words are not read according to the rules, that is, they are exceptions. Therefore, it begins to seem that it is extremely difficult to learn all this. In fact, the rules of reading need to be learned, but there is no need to memorize them. After doing a few exercises on the rules of reading, you will already know how exactly the same type of words are read. In the learning process, when you read and listen to a variety of educational materials, the spelling, pronunciation and meaning of new words will be remembered as a whole.
Features of English pronunciation
Reading in English for beginners at first presents some difficulties due to the peculiarities of pronunciation - words very often are not pronounced the way they are written. Linguists even have such a saying - "We write - Manchester, we pronounce - Liverpool." This situation is due to the fact that historically in the English language there were, and still are, many dialects in which the same letters and combinations of letters were read differently, which eventually became fixed in official English. An example is the letter combination ough. The words though , through , thought differ in only one letter, and the letter combination ough is read differently in all words.
The role of transcription in teaching English to read
So, as we have already said, in addition to the numerous rules for reading in English, difficulties arise when mastering the transcription of the English language. Transcription is the recording of speech sounds using special characters. You should not avoid it, as it is the best assistant in learning a language, which, firstly, will save you time when learning new words, and secondly, it will help you avoid pronunciation mistakes. After all, when you write out or memorize new words, you definitely need to know how they are read correctly. There are two options for how to do this. The first is to listen to it in some online resource, and the second is to look at the transcription.
Now in some tutorials, as well as on training sites, you can find "English transcription in Russian." It is believed that writing an English word in Russian letters is much easier than learning some strange phonetic signs. Actually, this is a delusion. English phonetics differs from Russian so much that Russian letters can only approximately convey the pronunciation of English words, and mostly the simplest ones, the reading of which is not difficult even without this kind of “transcription”. Some English sounds simply do not exist in Russian, and the correct pronunciation of seemingly similar English and Russian sounds may have certain differences.
Thus, we recommend that you take the time to learn the transcription icons and read the sounds. This is one of the basic knowledge when mastering the rules of reading English for beginners. Transcription knowledge will serve you faithfully at all stages of your learning.
We analyze the rules of reading English
There are different classifications of rules for reading consonants and vowels in English. For vowels, as a rule, 4 types of syllables are distinguished. These are the 4 types of environments that a vowel can be in and that affect its pronunciation. Some textbooks consider only the first two types of syllable - open and closed, but take into account whether the letter r is involved in these types of syllable - since it affects the reading of vowels. Consonants in different combinations can also be read differently. I must say that the number of exceptions and reading options for the same letter combinations in different words give reason to consider the reading rules as more generalized recommendations that should be studied before you start reading.
To familiarize yourself with the rules of reading in English, we suggest that you take as a basis the table with the options for reading letters, which are given in your textbook for children “English. Grades 1-4 in diagrams and tables” N. Vakulenko. These English reading rules for children cover almost all possible readings of vowels and consonants in English. But before we go directly to the tables, let's deal with two more concepts that you will definitely meet when you get acquainted with the rules of reading. it open and closed syllable.
The syllable is called open, when
- ends in a vowel and is the last word
- a vowel followed by a consonant and then a vowel again
- the vowel is followed by another vowel
Examples of words with open type syllable (you can listen with sound):
age, blue, bye, fly, go
The syllable is called closed, when
- ends in a consonant and is the last word
- several consonants follow a vowel
Examples of words with a closed syllable type:
bed, big, box, hungry, stand
So, let's formulate the rules for reading English for beginners: tables for reading vowels and consonants.
Vowel reading tables
Consonant Reading Tables
Intonation in English
Even if a student learns all the basic grammar rules and 10-12 thousand lexemes, this will not make him close to the native speaker, because. he needs to delve into the phonemic structure of the language, in particular, to learn in which cases to use which type of intonation.
There are two main types - ascending and descending.
The first is used in sentences-requests, when referring to a person, when announcing the list (in this case, the intonation goes up on each of the words except the last one), after adverbs and introductory words at the beginning of a phrase, at the beginning of an alternative question, in a disjunctive question.
The second type of intonation, lowering the tone, is relevant in statements, when giving orders. It can be found in exclamations, in special questions.
How to train this skill?
- Listen to how native speakers speak, how a particular word, sound, phrase is read in audio books.
- Watch videos on this topic. Moreover, English should be the first and main language of the narrator.
- Use the learning materials and apply the acquired knowledge in practice. Read aloud in English, after listening to the recording, talk at least a few times a week.
- Record your speech and do a comparative analysis with the native language.
stress in english
With an incorrect accent in certain letter combinations, it will be difficult for a native English speaker to understand you. However, it is pointless to memorize stress for each word, since there is a certain systemic nature in this aspect.
Most words are stressed on the first syllable. But there are those who obey a different rule. For example, the suffix formations -tion, -cian and -cial require an accent in front of them (inform A option, opt i cian). The suffixes -(g)nomy and -logy (ge O logy, ec O nomy).
With prefixes it is still easier - they are skipped and remain unstressed. This works with prefixes in-, en-, con-, com-, re-, de-, ex-, etc.: exch A nge, enc O mpass.
Negative prefixes (non-, un-, in-, ir-, not-) also fall under this rule: un U irr E levant.
There are a number of words that change the stressed type of a syllable in English to unstressed depending on the meaning:
- to object - object; O object - object;
- to press E nt - give; pr E sent - a gift, a present.
Having learned the basic provisions that regulate stress, and with a little practice, you can easily reach a high language bar.
How to learn the rules of reading. Online exercises
As we have said before, there is no need to memorize the rules of reading by heart. You just need to use them. To begin with, go through several exercises on the rules of reading, reading aloud the same type of words in a row. This will help to consolidate the rules of reading and develop pronunciation skills. For additional control, you can take exercises with audio accompaniment. In fact, the reading rules are worked out automatically by themselves, since by regularly studying English, you listen, read, write - that is, practice to work out the reading rules is quite enough.
Choose words that have similar vowel sounds
Choose the words that have the same consonants
Make an English tongue twister from words
You can apply the rules of reading in practice on our website. By taking unique exercises using the Lim English method, you will be able to master not only reading, but also writing English words, as well as learn basic grammar rules and continue learning further.