Lesson
"CAN" or "CAN'T"?
This is a common problem.You need to know that negative auxiliaries (such as can't, won't, wouldn't, isn't, etc) are stressed, but affirmative ones are not. Therefore, because "can't" is stressed, the vowel "a" is longer than in the word "can." "Can" is reduced and sounds kind of like "kn." This reduced vowel is short and neutral (schwa sound). Practice this: I kn go. (can) I caaan't go. (the phonetic symbol is /ae/ so it's not actually the British sounding /a/.)
If you only listen for the "t" at the end of the "can't" you might still be confused since that final "t" is usually held. It's kind of like a silent, half T. This is why it's important for you to know the rules of English word stress and rhythm. Also, following these rules will create a native sounding melody in your speech.
Good luck!
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