w
IPA: [v]

German w

German "w" is pronounced like English "v" — never like English "w". This is one of the most common mistakes for English speakers.

🇬🇧
English approximation
Always like English "v" — never like "w"

Pronunciation tips

1."Wasser" = "VAsser" not "WAsser"
2.Put your top teeth on your lower lip like "f" but voiced
3.German "v" is usually pronounced like English "f"
4.Practice: "was" (what) sounds like "vahs"

Example words — click to hear

Other German sounds

äöüchscheiiest / sprzeu / au