OUGH Pattern
OUGH can make many different sounds — it must be learned word by word.
How this rule works
OUGH is one of the most irregular patterns in English. There is no rule that predicts which sound a given OUGH word uses, so the rule card shows each variant alongside an example word you can tap to hear. Each word must be memorized.
Remember: OUGH is tricky — listen to each variant and learn the words individually.
Examples
Words that use this rule
19 words in the SnapPhonics dictionary use this rule. Tap any word to see how it breaks into sounds.
Exceptions
OUGH has at least 6 different pronunciations in English. The card shows variant sounds with playable example words instead of one rule-level recording.
What is SnapPhonics?
A phonics reference for teachers, parents and learners. Every English word, broken into the sounds that make it — with audio, syllables, and the rule behind each spelling.
Save words to study lists, build flashcard decks, and scan your own worksheets and books.