Can和Can't的发音

Here are three TIPS that will help you say can and can’t clearly.

Two pronunciations for the word CAN

- at the beginning or middle of a sentence, it’s not emphasized.

Pronounce the vowel with a schwa /ə/ (uh sound).

- at the end of a sentence, pronounce it with a strong /æ/ as in Black vowel sound.

One pronunciation for the word CAN’t

When you say can’t, pronounce the vowel sound with a nice long /æ/ as in Black vowel sound.

Don’t over articulate the sound of the T though! That could make you sound angry or abrupt.

Here’s a dialog with can & can’t

John: When cən you go to the movies with me? (schwa vowel sound)

Lisa: I cæn’t go this weekend because I have to work. (long, clear /æ/ sound)

John: Cən you go on Monday? (schwa vowel sound)

Lisa: I think I cən go then, let me check my schedule. Yes, I cæn! (schwa vowel sound + long, clear /æ/sound)