Here's why:
* The "i" in "friend" is pronounced like the "ee" in "see." This is a long vowel sound.
* The "e" at the end of the word is silent. It doesn't affect the pronunciation of the vowel.
Therefore, the vowel sound in "friend" is long.
Here's why:
* The "i" in "friend" is pronounced like the "ee" in "see." This is a long vowel sound.
* The "e" at the end of the word is silent. It doesn't affect the pronunciation of the vowel.
Therefore, the vowel sound in "friend" is long.