Here's why:
* Short "u" sound: The vowel sound in "flute" is a short "u" sound, similar to the "u" in "cup" or "but."
* No double vowel: The word "flute" does not have a double vowel (like "oo" in "moon" or "ee" in "tree").
* No silent "e" at the end: The word "flute" does not have a silent "e" at the end, which would indicate a long vowel sound.
Therefore, the "u" in "flute" is pronounced with a short vowel sound.