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How to Pronounce Polish Ł: A Clear Guide to the W-Like Sound

Learn to pronounce Polish ł like a native: shape your lips, avoid the hard l, and practise real words with clear guidance. Try the trainer today.

September 13, 2026 · 6 min

English-speaking learner practising the Polish ł sound outdoors beside the Vistula River

Why ł matters

In the first seconds of speech, listeners notice sound quality more than grammar. Polish ł looks like “l” but sounds closer to English w in *water*.

How to make the sound

  1. Round the lips.
  2. Do not touch the upper teeth with the tongue tip.
  3. Release air through the rounded lips.

Practice: ładny, łazienka, miło, stół.

Use the trainer and check which sounds are flagged after each attempt.

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How to Pronounce Polish Ł: A Clear Guide to the W-Like Sound | Jak Polak