In English spelling, the letter combination ai often represents the long /a/ sound. This is a common spelling pattern found in words such as rain, train, or paint. It is different from the short /a/ sound found in words like cat or hat.
Words that might look similar sound totally different depending on whether they have a short /a/ sound or a long /a/ sound, for example am and aim or clam and claim.
As there are six different ways of spelling the long /a/ sound, it is important to learn to identify and remember words that use the ai spelling. Have a go at the spelling activities and games – you’ll be confident in no time!
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The vet came to the dog's aid just in time.
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Tom's aim is to score 10 goals this season.
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He paid the fare for the train journey.
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You never fail to amaze me!
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The postman delivered the mail.
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What time does the ferry set sail?
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Dad tripped over the dog's tail.
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The snail left a trail on the path.
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Call this number to claim your prize.
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We don't want to live near the main road.
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I have a slight pain in my neck.
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There was a broken link in the chain.
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The chocolate cake is nicer than the plain cake.
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His blood made a dark red stain on the carpet.
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I have been under a lot of strain.
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How much longer do we have to wait?
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The sports therapist studied my gait.
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I like to use different colours when I paint.
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His voice was very faint.
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My skirt is tight around my waist.
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