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Consonant
K
The K sound is a voiceless velar stop consonant. It is made by pressing the back of your tongue against the soft palate (velum) and releasing it with a puff of air.
Phonetic
kVoicing
VoicelessPlace of Articulation
VelarManner of Articulation
Plosive/StopMouth Position
Press the back of your tongue against your soft palate (the soft part at the back of the roof of your mouth). Build up air pressure, then release it with a small puff of air. Your vocal cords should not vibrate.
How to Make This Sound
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Example Words
keyMain Example
/ki/cat
/kæt/keep
/kip/make
/meɪk/like
/laɪk/work
/wɜrk/book
/bʊk/Pronunciation Practice
8 words
Speak the words aloud to get instant feedback on your pronunciation
Quick Practice
3-5 essential words
Full Practice
All 8 words
Minimal Pairs
Listen and compare similar sounds
k
cap
/kæp/Compare with
C
gap
/gæp/k
back
/bæk/Compare with
B
bag
/bæg/k
cold
/koʊld/Compare with
C
gold
/goʊld/Tongue Twister
Practice: Consonant
“Kate keeps kicking the kinky kangaroo.”
Practice this tongue twister to improve your pronunciation