The pronunciation of
the letters V and B in English

How is the letter B pronounced in English?

The letter B is pronounced by bringing the lips together and using the vocal cords. The letter B has the phonetic sound /b/. Click on the audio link below to listen and repeat the sound.

► The letter B - phonetic sound of /b/

How is the letter V pronounced in English?

The letter V is pronounced by placing the upper teeth against the lower lip and using the vocal cords. Unlike the letter B, the lips are not brought together to produce the sound. The letter V has the phonetic sound /v/.

► The letter V - phonetic sound of /v/

The first word on each line has the sound of /v/. The second has the sound of /b/. Click on the word to hear and repeat the pronunciation.

The pronunciation of the letters V and B in English
The letter V	The letter B
► van	► ban
► valet	► ballet
► valid	► ballad
► very	► bury
► vat	► bat
► veil	► bail
► veer	► beer
► vent	► bent
► vest	► best
► volt	► bolt
► vote	► boat
► vow	► bow