What is the Pronunciation of the Letter “Xi“ in Korean?21

The Korean language has 24 consonants and 21 vowels. One of the consonants, ㅅ, can be pronounced in two different ways: as [s] or as [ɕ]. The sound [ɕ] is similar to the sound of "sh" in English, but it is produced with the tongue slightly further back in the mouth. This sound is represented by the letter "xi" in the revised Romanization of Korean.

The pronunciation of "xi" can vary depending on the speaker's dialect. In the Seoul dialect, "xi" is typically pronounced as [ɕ]. However, in some other dialects, such as the Gyeongsang dialect, "xi" is pronounced as [s].

Here are some examples of words that contain the letter "xi":* 씨 (씨, "seed")
시 (시, "city")
신 (신, "god")
샤 (샤, "shower")
셔 (셔, "shirt")

When "xi" is followed by a vowel, it is pronounced as [ɕ]. However, when "xi" is followed by a consonant, it is pronounced as [s].

Here are some examples of words that illustrate this rule:* 시간 (시간, "time") - pronounced as [ɕigan]
십 (십, "ten") - pronounced as [ɕip]
국수 (국수, "noodles") - pronounced as [guksu]
특별 (특별, "special") - pronounced as [tɯkpyʌl]

The pronunciation of "xi" can be difficult for non-native speakers of Korean. However, with practice, it is possible to master this sound.

Here are some tips for pronouncing "xi" correctly:* Place your tongue slightly further back in your mouth than you would for the sound [s].
Round your lips slightly.
Blow air through your teeth.

With practice, you will be able to pronounce "xi" correctly and speak Korean like a native.

2024-12-02

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