How to Pronounce “They’re,” “Their,” and “There” in Everyday Speech
Introduction
One of the most common pronunciation questions in English centers on the trio of homophones: they’re, their, and there. Although each word has a distinct meaning and spelling, you’ll often hear them pronounced the same way in casual speech. In the video below, you’ll see and hear exactly how these words sound in real conversation, and we’ll also explore when and why you might want to slow down for clarity.
Watch the Video
If you’d like a detailed demonstration of how to pronounce these words, check out the video below. You’ll get to hear each variation in context and practice saying them yourself. Pay attention to the subtle vowel length in “they’re” (the contraction), which can sometimes be more pronounced when you slow down.
Understanding “They’re,” “Their,” and “There”
- They’re (they are)
- Meaning: A contraction of “they are.”
- Example: They’re going to the movies tonight.
- Their
- Meaning: A possessive pronoun indicating ownership.
- Example: That is their car in the driveway.
- There
- Meaning: Refers to a location or place. It can also be used in expressions like “There is…” or “There are….”
- Example: Please set the boxes down over there.
Despite these distinct uses, they often sound the same in most day-to-day conversations.
The Technical Pronunciation
Subtle Vowel Difference in “They’re”
A key point you’ll see in the video is that “they’re” (the contraction) can sometimes have a slightly longer vowel—like “they-uhr.” However, this difference is so small that most people won’t notice it when speaking at a natural pace. Instead, you’ll hear them all as a single syllable: /THAYR/ or /ðɛr/.
So, Which Way Should You Pronounce "they're"?
It depends on your goals. If you’re presenting, teaching, or want to emphasize the grammar, slowing down and pronouncing the full vowel can help your audience hear the distinction between “they’re” and “their” or “there.” Most of the time, though, you’ll hear native and fluent speakers say them the same way to maintain a more natural flow.
Now it’s your turn: Watch the video again, practice the examples, and decide which approach feels best for your everyday conversations. Whichever pronunciation you choose, remember that consistency and contextual clarity are what matter most!
Thanks for reading and watching!
