Polish Language: Pronunciation of "Ch" Explained"

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In summary, the "ch" sound in Polish is pronounced similarly to the "j" in Spanish or some Arabic consonants when followed by a vowel, but when it ends a word, it is pronounced the same as "rz" or "ż". The "ł" in words like "zamarzł" does not affect the pronunciation of the "z" before it, and the name "Marzena" is pronounced as "Mażena".
  • #1
fluidistic
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Polish language: the "ch"

I'm having a doubt about the pronounciation of the "ch" in Polish. When it is followed by a vowell (like in the word "kocham") I know it's pronounced similarly to the "j" in Spanish or probably some arabic consonant. However when it ends a word (like in the word "strach"), how is it pronounced? Still the same way or like a "k"? Or a mix of both?
 
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  • #2


"h" "ch" always same
"rz" "ż" same but "zamarzł" "rz" -> "r" "z" no "ż"
try translate.google.pl
kocham, ham, chichot, krzyż OK
zamarzł NOT, beter sounds zamarsł
 
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  • #3


Historically h & ch were different sounds, in modern Polish they are always identical.

Xitami said:
zamarzł NOT, beter sounds zamarsł

Are you sure?

"ł" to spółgłoska sonorna, bez bezdźwięcznego odpowiednika, więc nie ubezdźwięczniająca się w wygłosie. Nie ma powodu żeby "z" przed nią straciło dźwięczność.

Edit: zacząłem się teraz zastanawiać, czy to "ł" nie zanika, zostawiajac "zamars".

Sorry all, translating the phrase above to English is beyond my capabilities :grumpy:
 
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  • #4


Ok thanks guys.
So Marzena is pronounced "Mażena"?
 
  • #5


fluidistic said:
Ok thanks guys.
So Marzena is pronounced "Mażena"?

Yes.
 
  • #6


Borek said:
Yes.

Thanks. :smile:
 

1. What is the correct pronunciation of "ch" in Polish?

The correct pronunciation of "ch" in Polish is similar to the English "h" sound. It is a voiceless velar fricative, meaning the sound is made by pushing air through the back of the mouth without using the vocal cords.

2. Are there different ways to pronounce "ch" in Polish?

Yes, there are different ways to pronounce "ch" in Polish depending on the region and dialect. In some parts of Poland, it may be pronounced as a voiceless postalveolar affricate, which is a combination of the "sh" and "h" sounds. However, the most common and standard pronunciation is the voiceless velar fricative.

3. Is there a rule for when to use the voiceless velar fricative or the voiceless postalveolar affricate pronunciation of "ch" in Polish?

There is no specific rule for when to use each pronunciation. It is mostly a matter of regional variation and personal preference. However, the voiceless velar fricative is the more common and standard pronunciation in Polish.

4. How do I know which pronunciation to use when learning Polish?

If you are learning Polish, it is best to follow the standard pronunciation of the voiceless velar fricative for "ch." This is the most widely used and accepted pronunciation in the language. However, it is always helpful to listen to native speakers and adapt to the regional variations if needed.

5. Are there any tips for achieving the correct pronunciation of "ch" in Polish?

One helpful tip is to practice making the "h" sound in English and then try to make it without using your vocal cords. This will help you achieve the correct sound for the voiceless velar fricative. Additionally, listening to native speakers and imitating their pronunciation can also improve your accuracy.

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