
The letter sequence “ough” is one of the most intriguing and unpredictable patterns in English. Its pronunciation varies widely—from at least six different sounds in North American English to over ten in British English.
Uses of ‘ough’
Beyond its role in forming many words, “ough” can also be used to add emotional flair to your speech. By slightly altering its sound—imagine inserting a subtle “ug” between the “o” and the “h”—you can infuse your expression with passion or intensity. This versatile sequence can also replace a long “o” sound to give a word extra emphasis, making it more engaging and dynamic.
For instance, you might exclaim, “Ough, that’s too much!” to express frustration, or shout “OUGH!” in a burst of excitement during a thrilling moment.
Word List Featuring ‘ough’
It’s fascinating how words containing “ough” are pronounced so differently.
Word | Example |
---|---|
DOUGH | I kneaded the dough to make fresh bread. |
COUGH | The toddler had a persistent cough during the winter months. |
ROUGH | The fabric felt rough, yet it was surprisingly durable. |
PLOUGH | The farmer used a plough to prepare the field for planting. |
TOUGH | After the long journey, she admitted that the hike was really tough. |
BOUGH | A small bird built its nest on a sturdy bough of the old oak tree. |
THOUGH | He finished the assignment, though he felt exhausted. |
ALTHOUGH | Although the weather was gloomy, we enjoyed our outdoor activities. |
THROUGH | She worked through the night to meet the deadline. |
AFTERTHOUGHT | The suggestion was merely an afterthought made during the meeting. |
BOUGHT | I bought a new laptop during the seasonal sale. |
THOUGHT | I thought the presentation was insightful and engaging. |
THOUGHTFULNESS | Her thoughtfulness towards colleagues makes her a cherished team member. |
BREAKTHROUGH | Scientists announced a breakthrough in renewable energy technology. |
ENOUGH | There are enough resources available to complete the project on time. |
DOUGHNUT | He treats himself to a doughnut every morning with his coffee. |
DROUGHT | The region experienced a severe drought that affected crop production. |
OUGHT | At this stage, you ought to review your preparation for the IELTS exam. |
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