Consonants are essential for clear speech! Here's a breakdown of key concepts:

1. Consonant Types

  • Stop/Plosive: /p/, /b/, /t/, /d/, /k/, /g/ (e.g., "pat", "bat")
    stop_plosive
  • Fricative: /f/, /v/, /s/, /z/, /ʃ/, /ʒ/ (e.g., "fan", "van")
    fricative
  • Nasal: /m/, /n/, /ŋ/ (e.g., "man", "nun")
    nasal

2. Articulation Points

  • Bilabial (lips): /p/, /b/, /m/
  • Labiodental (lower lip & upper teeth): /f/, /v/
  • Dental (teeth): /θ/, /ð/ (e.g., "think", "this")
    dental
  • Alveolar (alveolar ridge): /t/, /d/, /s/, /z/
    alveolar

3. Voice & Airflow

  • Voiced vs. Unvoiced:
    • Voiced: /b/, /d/, /z/ (vocal cords vibrate)
    • Unvoiced: /p/, /t/, /s/ (no vibration)
  • Aspirated (strong airflow): /p/, /t/, /k/ (e.g., "pat" vs. "stop")

For interactive practice, check out our pronunciation exercises page! 💬

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