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Initials Ⅲ-1

In this video, we'll learn another four initials together.

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.

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Learn Chinese: Introduction to Chinese Pronunciation and Tone

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FutureLearn - Learning For Life

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