Silent Letters in English: How to Spell Words You Don’t Fully Hear

Understanding Silent Letters in English Words with Examples and Pronunciation Tips

Have you ever wondered why words like knight, island, or psychology have letters you don't pronounce? Welcome to the world of silent letters!

Silent letters are everywhere in English, and they can confuse both spelling and pronunciation. Let’s explore some of the most common examples and how to handle them like a pro.

🔤 Common Silent Letter Words

• K in knife, knee, knight
• B in thumb, climb, lamb
• L in calm, half, talk
• W in wrist, answer, sword
• P in psychology, pneumonia
• S in island, aisle

🎯 Tips to Master Silent Letters

• Use mnemonics to remember tricky spellings.
• Listen to native pronunciation on apps like Forvo.
• Practice spelling with flashcards or games.
• Learn word roots—many silent letters come from Latin, Greek, or Old English origins.

📘 Also read: Confusing English Words That Look Alike

📚 External resource: Cambridge Dictionary: Silent Letters

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why does English have silent letters?

Silent letters often remain from older versions of English or borrowed words from other languages like French or Latin.

How can I remember which letters are silent?

The best way is to read and listen frequently. Pay attention to patterns and repeat difficult words aloud.

🕒 Updated: July 15, 2025