Tip #13 How to pronounce the tsu syllable in Japanese
From Learn Japanese Now!
By Makurasuki Sensei, Brett McCluskey
Of the 46 syllables in the Japanese syllabary, there are three that are mispronounced frequently by native English speakers. The focus of this mini lesson is on one of the more difficult syllables to pronounce in the Japanese Language, namely the tsu syllable. The way you go about conquering the pronunciation of words that contain tsu or begin or end with the syllable tsu requires a little cleverness, patience and of course consistent practice. The pronunciation is not that difficult but can be comprehended by using two English words to pluck out, if you will the pronunciation. Two English words that are elided together, like in the following phrase eight suits gives a close approximation of the sound of tsu in Japanese say the following out loud
eight suits, eight suits, eight suits, eight suits, eight suits, eight suits
Now say loud a couple more times and concentrate on the elision that occurs between the words eight and suits. Say it faster and faster until you can feel the tsu come out of eigh –tsu- its The correct or nearest equivalent that native English speakers of Japanese can get to saying the tsu syllable is taking the t from the eight and adding the su in the previous example. Practice with your newly acquired, authentic sounding, near native pronunciation, the following words containing tsu
Tsuitachi – 20th of the month
Tsuyuu – the rainy season
Itsu? – when?
Hachimitsu –honey
Itsutsu – 5 counter
Itsumo – always
Motsuaruto –mozart
Etc.
Ganbatte ne. Do your Best
McCluskey Sensei, yori
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