Here's why:
* Short vowel sound: The "a" in "place" makes a short "a" sound, similar to the "a" in "cat" or "hat".
* Long vowel sounds: Long vowel sounds are typically associated with a vowel that is followed by a consonant and then a silent "e" at the end of the word (like "cake" or "mate").
So, when you say "place," the "a" sound is short and quick.