Written TH is pronounced several ways.
I wonder how an American pronounces…
they’re … their … there
/ˈðɛ–ɚ/
Each of these words is 2 syllables,
with r in an unstressed syllable.
they–re … the–ir … the–re
/ˈðɛ–ɚ/ … /ˈðɛ–ɚ/ … /ˈðɛ–ɚ/
The 3 words are pronounced the same.
[for more about r, click here]
Each word is different, though.
Let’s review their meaning and spelling
by looking at my vacation pictures.
they’re = they are
They’re dancing.
The girls are playing with their cellphone.
there = existence
there = location
There is a giant dragon on top of the wall.
Do you see the dragon up there?
So let’s practice.
In the 9 sentences below, fill in each blank with the correct word.
You can check the answers at the end.
(1) The children are happy
because _________ going on vacation.
(2) Mom and Dad have already
bought _________ plane tickets.
(3) _________ all going to the American southwest.
(4) _________ going to see the Grand Canyon.
(5) _________ are many unusual parks in the southwest.
[For information about
Antelope Canyon, click here.]
(6) Imagine _________ surprise
when they see the desert in Arizona.
(7) _________ are a lot of cowboys in the southwest.
They want to see real cowboys.
(8) _________ going to see _________ first rodeo.
Won’t that be fun.
(9) _________ going to have a really good time.
Check answers here.
(1) they’re
(2) their
(3) they’re
(4) they’re
(5) there
(6) their
(7) there
(8) they’re … their
(9) they’re
