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Initials Ⅱ

In this video, we'll continue to learn some more initials:d t n l g k h j q x.

Let’s continue to learn some more initials:d t n l g k h j q x.

“d t n l” are pronounced by the coordination of the tongue tip and the upper gums. We add the sound “e” after them when we read d t n l. “l” is a little different from the other three. Your tongue touches the gums gently and the airflow comes out from two sides of your tongue.

Syllables beginning with d t n l:

  • dú——to read
  • tī——to kick
  • nǚ——female
  • là——spicy
“g k h” are produced with the coordination of the back of the tongue and the soft palate. We also add “e” after them when we read.
g, the back of your tongue holds against the soft palate, and then your tongue drops suddenly. k, the airflow is stronger than “g”. h, the back of the tongue is close to the soft palate, leave some space between them to let the airflow rush out . “h” just like ‘h’ in ‘hello’.
Syllables beginning with g k h:
  • gē——elder brother
  • kǎ——card
  • hē——to drink
“j q x” are produced with the coordination of the tongue surface and hard palate. The shape of your mouth is like a smile. We add “i” after them when we read. j , the tongue should touch the upper jaw,and then a gap is opened to let the air rush out . q , the air flow is stronger than j. x, your tongue surface does not touch the hard palate.
Syllables beginning with j q x:
  • jí——anxious
  • qù——to go
  • xǐ——to wash

It should be noted that j q x can only be combined with i ü and compound finals beginning with i ü. For convenience, we drop the two dots of ü when it is written after j q x but still read ü: j—ü—jū, q—ü—qū, x—ü—xū. Click to listen

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Learn Chinese: Introduction to Chinese Pronunciation and Tone

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FutureLearn - Learning For Life

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