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I'm also from New England and pronounce it differently, note that the difference is outrageously slight... "debt" is ever-so slightly longer than "det"... best I can place it is that "debt" is pronounced further back in my mouth and "det" is more toothy.


The thing is, "debt" and "det" can be pronounced very slightly differently without claiming that you're "pronouncing the b".

A "b" sound is very distinct in English, involving a closing of the lips.

If "debt" were instead spelled "deht" (and pronounced exactly the same), readers would claim that they "pronounce the h".


I wouldn't go as far to say that the "b" is fully pronounced, I agree, but it's almost like it starts to be pronounced... it kind of softens the "t"?




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