When does c say s or ch in English?
In English, the letter "c" is pronounced like "s" in specific contexts. Here are the general rules:
Before "e," "i," or "y":
When "c" is followed by "e," "i," or "y," it is typically pronounced as "s."
Examples:
Center
City
Cycle
In some cases, particularly in words of foreign origin or specific proper nouns, "c" before "e," "i," or "y" may take the soft "c" sound (/s/).
Examples:
Cirrus (Latin)
Cyan (Greek)
Italian Loan Words:
In Italian loan words, "ci" and "ce" should be pronounced as "ch."
Examples:
Cello
Ciabatta
Ciao
Cappucino
Understanding these pronunciation rules helps navigate the nuances of English pronunciation, especially in borrowed words.
