Skip to Main Content

English Language Learning (ELL) Resources: LINKS

Pronunciation of "ch" and "c"

In Englishch is most commonly pronounced as [], as in chalkcheesecherrychurchmuch, etc.

Ch can also be pronounced as [k], as in achechoirschool and stomach. Most words with this pronunciation of ch find their origin in Greek words with the letter chi, like mechanicschemistry and character. Others, like chiaroscuroscherzo and zucchini, come from Italian.

In some English words of French origin, "ch" represents [ʃ], as in charademachinechivalry and nonchalant. Due to hypercorrection, this pronunciation also occurs in a few loanwords from other sources, like machete (from Spanish) and pistachio (from Italian).

In certain dialects of British English ch is often pronounced [] in two words: sandwich and spinach, and also in place names, such as Greenwich and Norwich.

In words of Scots origin it may be pronounced as [x] (or [k]), as in loch and clachan. In words of Hebrew or Yiddish origin it may be pronounced as [χ] (or [x]).

The digraph can also be silent, as in Crichtoncurrachdrachmyacht and traditionally in schism.

English Rules

Writing Tips for English Language Learners

Learn English FREE with USA Learns!

ShareAmerica.gov

Recommended Links

chat loading...

About UsContact UsFVTC Terms of ServiceSitemap
FVTC Mission, Vision, Values & Purposes FVTC Privacy StatementFVTC Library Services Accessibility Statement
DISCLAIMER: Any commercial mentions on our website are for instructional purposes only. Our guides are not a substitute for professional legal or medical advice.

Fox Valley Technical College • Library Services • 1825 N. Bluemound Drive • Room G113
Appleton, WI 54912-2277 • United States • (920) 735-5653
© 2024 • Fox Valley Technical College • All Rights Reserved.

The https://library.fvtc.edu/ pages are hosted by SpringShare. Springshare Privacy Policy.