Vowel 12: /ə/

Comparison with Spanish

This vowel is different to any other in Spanish. It is articulated in the centre of the mouth. The lips are neutral. It is short and unstressed. When it appears in final position this vowel sounds more like Spanish /a/. It is called “schwa” in English and it has multiple spellings and may appear in any position:

Initial: about, afraid, majestic
Middle: sisterhood, excellent, problematic
Final: letter, famous, enjoyment