Palatalize

Pro Tip 1/3

Pronunciation Change

Palatalization affects how you pronounce consonants, making them sound softer.

The 'n' in 'canyon' is palatalized, sounding softer than in 'can'.

Pro Tip 2/3

Language Specific

Not all languages use palatalization, so its presence can be a clue to a word's origin.

Palatalized sounds in 'pizza' hint at its Italian roots.

Pro Tip 3/3

Before Front Vowels

Palatalization often happens before vowels that are pronounced closer to the front of the mouth.

In the word 'nature', the 't' is palatalized before the front vowel 'u'.