How many diphthongs are there in English language?

There's no single, universally agreed-upon answer to how many diphthongs there are in English. It depends on how you define a diphthong and how you categorize them.

Here's a breakdown of the complexities:

* Phonetic vs. Phonemic Diphthongs: Some linguists differentiate between phonetic diphthongs (where the vowel sound changes noticeably during articulation) and phonemic diphthongs (where the change in sound is significant enough to create a distinct meaning).

* Categorization: The number of diphthongs can vary based on whether you consider all possible combinations of vowel sounds or only those that are considered distinct phonemes in English.

* Regional Variation: Even within English, there are regional accents that pronounce diphthongs differently.

Here are some common approaches:

* Traditional View: Many sources list 8-10 diphthongs, focusing on the phonemic diphthongs like "oi" in "boy," "ow" in "cow," and "ay" in "day."

* More Comprehensive View: Some linguists identify a broader range of diphthongs, including those that are less distinct and might be considered phonetic variations rather than separate phonemes.

Ultimately, the exact number of diphthongs in English is debatable. However, recognizing that there are different approaches to categorizing them is crucial for understanding the complexity of the English vowel system.