latter and letter

[jctgf]

Hi,
Is there any difference in the pronunciation of these words?
Are they pronounced exactly the same way?
I have a software that pronounces English words and I can't perceive any difference at all.
Thanks.

[susiedqq]

Yes, there should be a difference.


lat-ter (as in fat)

let ter (as in bet)

then there's ladder . . .

[Anglika]

In "latter", the a sounds as in "bat"/"cat"

In "letter", the e sounds as in "get"/"let".

[jctgf]

thanks a lot.
it's very difficult, not to say impossible, for me to notice the difference.
do you think it's possible to be unterstood if the "a" in "latter" is spoken like the "a" in "are"?
also, could you suggest a software to help the student improve their pronunciation?
thanks.

[Anglika]

Originally Posted by jctgf

thanks a lot.
it's very difficult, not to say impossible, for me to notice the difference.
do you think it's possible to be unterstood if the "a" in "latter" is spoken like the "a" in "are"?
also, could you suggest a software to help the student improve their pronunciation?
thanks.

It would be wrong, and could lead to misinterpretation of what you are saying.


Have a look though this link for possible help: Language Exchanges - ESL Web Directory - UsingEnglish.com

[Neillythere]

As a Brit, but not a teacher:

The "a" in "latter" would never be spoken (or probably even understood if spoken) like the "a" in "are/car/far" or the "e" in "letter".

I would recommend you forget the software you are using if it so far away from the real English pronunciation.

You really need to get your pronunciation from a native speaker.

Later!