‑ed endings: /t/, /d/ or /ɪd/?
Why 'worked', 'played' and 'wanted' end with three different sounds, and a simple rule to say them right.
Every regular past-tense verb ends in -ed, but it isn't always said the same way. There are three sounds, and the sound at the end of the verb decides which one you use.
Rule 1: /ɪd/ after t and d
Rule
If the verb ends in a /t/ or /d/ sound, say -ed as /ɪd/. This adds an extra syllable.Rule 2: /t/ after voiceless sounds
Voiceless sounds are made without your voice, like /p/, /k/, /s/, /ʃ/, /tʃ/ and /f/. Put your hand on your throat: you feel nothing.
Rule
After a voiceless sound, say -ed as /t/. No extra syllable.Rule 3: /d/ after everything else
Rule
After a voiced sound (all vowels, and sounds like /b/, /g/, /l/, /m/, /n/, /v/), say -ed as /d/.Don't say
worked → /ˈwɜːkɪd/ (two syllables)
Say
worked → /wɜːkt/ (one syllable)
Quick check
3 questions · nothing is savedHow do you say the -ed in 'wanted'?
How do you say the -ed in 'laughed'?
How do you say the -ed in 'cleaned'?
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