[ŋ]
 |
[sɑŋ] |
song |
|
[ˈsɪŋɹ̩] |
singer |
|
[ˈfɪŋɡɹ̩] |
finger |
|
[bæŋk] |
bank |
The symbol [ŋ] is usually called "eng" [ɛŋ] . It is like an [n] with the tail of a [ɡ].
Things to look out for:
- In spelling, the letter combination ng is usually just the single sound [ŋ], but occasionally there really is a [ɡ] sound too. Compare singer [ˈsɪŋɹ̩] (no [ɡ]) with finger [ˈfɪŋɡɹ̩].
- The [ŋ] sound also occurs in the combinations usually spelled nk or nc, as in blank [blæŋk]. If you're ever tempted to use [nk] in a transcription, double-check to make sure it's really an [n] instead of an [ŋ] -- and it usually won't be. Compare uncool [ʌnˈkul] with uncle [ˈʌŋkl̩].
- Be sure to get the tail on the right leg of the [n] and pointing in the proper direction. The IPA also has the symbols [ɲ] and [ɳ], which represent different sounds (not used in English).
