3.1 Readable · SC 3.1.6

AAA2 min read

Pronunciation

A mechanism is available for identifying specific pronunciation of words where meaning of the words, in context, is ambiguous without knowing the pronunciation.

In plain language

If a word's meaning depends on how it's pronounced (like "read" meaning either present or past tense), there should be a way to find out the correct pronunciation for that specific context.

Why it matters

Screen readers can't guess which pronunciation is correct without help, and people with reading or cognitive disabilities may not be able to figure out the intended meaning just from context. Without pronunciation help, the sentence can become confusing or be read aloud incorrectly.

In practice

Fails this criterion

A page uses the word "read" in a sentence where it's ambiguous whether it means present or past tense, with no indication of which pronunciation applies.

Meets this criterion

The same word is linked to an audio clip or marked up with pronunciation information, making clear exactly how it should be said and understood in that context.

Test it yourself

Look for words on the site whose meaning depends on pronunciation (like "read," "lead," "wind"). Is there a way to find out which pronunciation is intended in that context?

Read SC 3.1.6 on the official WCAG 2.2 specification ↗