Question

In the word eight, the initial sound is

• A. /e/
• B. /ai/
• C. /ei/
• D. /i/

Answer 1

Answer:

C. /ei/

The word "eight" begins with the diphthong:

• /eɪ/ (often written as /ei/ in simplified transcription)

• So, phonetically: eight = /eɪt/

This diphthong involves:

• Starting near the vowel /e/ (as in get)

• Gliding toward /ɪ/ (as in bit)