Initials Ⅲ-1

We now only have seven initials left to learn.

To pronounce zh, ch, sh, r, you should use the raised tongue tip and the front part of the hard palate together.

• sh, is similar to sh in the word “shy”. “lǎoshī” means teacher， “Wǒ shì lǎoshī。”means “I’m a teacher.”
• zh, the front of your tongue initially touches the hard palate, the mouth shape here same as with sh. “zhè” which means “this”.
• ch, similar to zh, but the airflow is stronger. “chī” which means “to eat”.
• r, raise the two sides of your tongue, and then let your vocal cords vibrate.“ròu” which means “meat”.

Please note that i after zh ch sh r is silent. This is a special final –i used after them. When you see it, only have to read the initial and the tone on it.