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Many short (form) words have developed weak forms, eg /ænd/ - /ən/, /tu:/ - /tə/.
Weak forms occur only in unstressed positions.
The strong form will always be used with words which are essential to the meaning of a passage.
In connected speech weak forms are much more frequent than the corresponding strong forms.
Foreigners tend to use weak forms too rarely.
The vowel phoneme of a strong form is, in the weak form of the word, most often replaced by /ə/
or left out. (/æz/ - /əz/ - /z/)
The consonant of the strong form may also be left out in the weak form of the word (/hi:/ - /i:/).
Examples:
1. and /ən/
Right and wrong. Better and better.
2. as /əz/
As soon as I can. Now I'm as fit as a fiddle again.
3. but /bət/
But why? But why not?
4. than /ðən/
Worse than ever. Sooner than expected.
5. that /ðət/
Is this the best that you can do?
6. the /ðə/
The proof of the pudding is in the eating.
7. some /səm/
Could I have some more tea, please?
8. from /frəm/
Wine is made from grapes. He drank from a cup.
9. can /kən/
How can I help you? You can stay out of my way.