/z/ — choose the word that contains the sound represented by the phonetic symbol

Analyze the question: You need the word that contains the consonant sound /z/ (the voiced "z" sound, as in "zoo" or "buzz").

Concept: In English, spelling does not always match sound. The letter "s" can sound like /s/ or /z/, and "x" can sound like /ks/ or /gz/. So pronounce each word and listen to the sounds.

Solution:

• A. lice is /laɪs/. The "ce" makes /s/, which is voiceless. No /z/.
• B. exist is /ɪɡˈzɪst/. The "x" is pronounced /gz/, so it contains /z/. ✔
• C. leave is /liːv/. The sounds are /l/, /iː/ and /v/. No /z/.
• D. measure is /ˈmeʒə/. The "s" makes /ʒ/ (as in "vision"), not /z/. This is the trap option, because /ʒ/ and /z/ look similar but are different sounds.

Answer: The word containing /z/ is exist, which is option B.

Tip: Put your fingers on your throat and say "sss" then "zzz". With /z/ you feel a buzz. Also remember that "x" between vowels, when the stress falls on the following syllable (exist, exam, example), is usually pronounced /gz/. Be careful not to confuse /z/ with /ʒ/ (measure, treasure, pleasure).