Dutch pronunciation: Lange klinkers - /aː/

Sample pronunciation audio

Start with one sample audio file for lange klinkers - /aː/.

Quick tip

Long vowels are held longer than short vowels, with a steady sound.

Letters and IPA

Practice words

• maan

• kaas

• vaak

• slaan

• taal

Minimal pairs

• maan / man
• kaas / kas
• vaak / vak
• slaan / slan
• taal / tal

How to produce this sound

Open your mouth wide and say 'a' as in 'car', but hold it longer. The tongue stays low and flat.

Common mix-ups

• maan / man
• kaas / kas
• vaak / vak
• slaan / slan
• taal / tal

Closest comparison

car, father, spa, calm, start