Here's a breakdown:
Short "u" sound:
* IPA symbol: /ʌ/
* Example words: "cup," "sun," "drum"
* Characteristics: It's a relatively short, open sound, with the tongue slightly raised towards the roof of the mouth.
Schwa sound:
* IPA symbol: /ə/
* Example words: "about," "the," "again"
* Characteristics: It's a very short, unstressed sound, with the tongue in a neutral position in the mouth.
Similarities:
* Both sounds are relatively short and unstressed.
* They are both vowel sounds produced in the front of the mouth.
Differences:
* The short "u" sound (/ʌ/) is more open and rounded than the schwa sound (/ə/).
* The schwa sound is significantly shorter and more neutral than the short "u" sound.
In summary:
While the short "u" sound and the schwa sound share some similarities, they are distinct sounds with different articulations and qualities. The short "u" is more open and rounded, while the schwa is more neutral and unstressed.