Often has two accepted pronunciations in modern English. Some speakers pronounce the t, saying OFF ten. Others leave it silent and say OFF en. Both forms are widely used, and both are considered standard.
This is why you may hear different teachers, broadcasters, or dictionaries give different versions. Pronunciation can vary by region, education, style, and personal habit. In careful speech, some people prefer to pronounce the t. In everyday speech, many speakers do not.
A simple way to think about it is this: neither pronunciation is wrong. What matters most is being clear and sounding natural.
- With the t: I often read before bed.
- Without the t: We often go there on Sundays.
If you are learning English, it is helpful to recognize both. You can choose the version you hear most often around you, or the one your teacher recommends. Just try to stay consistent, especially in formal speaking practice.
