Mastering the Spanish Sounds: R, Ñ, J, and H
Spanish pronunciation can be fascinating yet challenging for learners. Four particular letters that often pose difficulties are 'R', 'Ñ', 'J', and 'H'. Here's how to correctly articulate these sounds in Spanish:
The Letter "R"
Single "R": This sound is a single tap of the tongue against the roof of the mouth, like the 'tt' in the American English "butter."
Double "RR": This is the famous rolled 'r' sound, where the tongue vibrates against the roof of the mouth.
The Letter "Ñ"
"Ñ": This unique Spanish sound is made by placing the tongue on the roof of the mouth, similar to the 'ny' in the English word "canyon."
The Letter "J"
"J": Spanish 'j' is pronounced like the 'h' in the English word "hot," but it's harsher and more guttural, similar to the 'ch' in the Scottish "loch."
The Letter "H"
"H": This letter is always silent in Spanish. It's never pronounced, regardless of its position in a word.