Consonants
Most consonants are pronounced as they are in English, with a few special exceptions.
Glottalized Stops (ṕ, ť, ć, ḱ)
Pronounced like English "p", "t", "ch", and "k" but with a simultaneous glottal catch (a sudden stop of breath).
Note: At the end of words or before consonants, these lose their glottal "pop" and sound like plain p, t, c, k.
Note: At the end of words or before consonants, these lose their glottal "pop" and sound like plain p, t, c, k.
Imploded Stops (b, d)
Made by forming a slight vacuum in the mouth which is released as the sound is made.
Glottal Stop (ʔ or ʼ)
The sound in the middle of "uh-oh". In Nisenan, this is a distinct consonant.
Glide (j)
Pronounced like English "y" in "yellow". (The symbol 'y' is reserved for a vowel).
Vowels
| Symbol | Pronunciation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| a | Like "a" in father. | Always consistent. |
| e | Like "e" in met (before consonants) or "a" in cake. | depends on position |
| i | Like "i" in bit or "i" in machine. | depends on position |
| u | Like "u" in put or "u" in rude. | depends on position |
| y | No English equivalent. Clench teeth, tongue flat on roof, spread lips. Like the end of "places" in relaxed speech. | Key distinct sound |
| ǝ | Like "u" in mud. | Rare |