ue
This letter combination usually makes a long 'oo' sound, like in the words 'blue' and 'true'.
The digraph 'ue' typically makes the /uː/ sound, but this is not a standalone word in English. When appearing in words like 'blue' or 'true', the 'ue' represents a vowel sound that requires the preceding consonant for pronunciation.
Phonics breakdown
Phonics Rule: UE Vowel Team (/juː/)
After most other consonants, UE keeps a Y-glide — like 'rescue' and 'value'.
When UE follows a consonant other than L, R, S, or J, it usually says /juː/ — with a Y-glide at the start. Companion rule to vowel_team_ue.
Tip
UE after most consonants — YOO!
Examples
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