Demi-French Pronunciation: A Guide to the Basics249

Demi-French pronunciation, also known as Parisian French, is the standard pronunciation of French spoken in Paris and the surrounding Île-de-France region. It is the most widely taught and recognized pronunciation of French worldwide. While there are many different regional variations of French pronunciation, demi-French is considered the most prestigious and elegant.

Vowels

The vowels in demi-French are pronounced as follows:
a: like "ah" in "father"
e: like "eh" in "bet"
i: like "ee" in "feet"
o: like "oh" in "boat"
u: like "oo" in "boot"

Consonants

The consonants in demi-French are pronounced as follows:
b: like "b" in "boy"
c: like "k" in "cat"
d: like "d" in "dog"
f: like "f" in "fish"
g: like "g" in "go"
h: silent
j: like "zh" in "measure"
k: like "k" in "key"
l: like "l" in "love"
m: like "m" in "man"
n: like "n" in "nose"
p: like "p" in "pot"
q: like "k" in "queen"
r: rolled
s: like "s" in "say"
t: like "t" in "top"
v: like "v" in "van"
w: like "v" in "van"
x: like "ks" in "box"
y: like "ee" in "feet"
z: like "z" in "zoo"

Diphthongs

Diphthongs are two vowels that are pronounced together as one syllable. The diphthongs in demi-French are pronounced as follows:
ai: like "ay" in "say"
ei: like "ay" in "they"
oi: like "wah" in "wah-wah"
ui: like "wee" in "wee-wee"

Nasal Vowels

Nasal vowels are vowels that are pronounced through the nose. The nasal vowels in demi-French are pronounced as follows:
a: like "ah" in "father" with the nose pinched
e: like "eh" in "bet" with the nose pinched
i: like "ee" in "feet" with the nose pinched
o: like "oh" in "boat" with the nose pinched
u: like "oo" in "boot" with the nose pinched

Liaison

Liaison is the linking of two words together by pronouncing the final consonant of the first word and the initial vowel of the second word as one syllable. Liaison is very common in demi-French and is essential for correct pronunciation.

Pronunciation Tips

Here are a few tips for pronouncing demi-French correctly:
Pay attention to the vowel sounds. The vowels in demi-French are pronounced very differently from the vowels in English.
Roll your "r"s. The "r" sound in demi-French is rolled, which means that the tip of your tongue vibrates against the roof of your mouth.
Pronounce your nasal vowels correctly. Nasal vowels are pronounced through the nose, which means that you need to pinch your nose while you are pronouncing them.
Use liaison correctly. Liaison is very common in demi-French, and it is essential for correct pronunciation.

With a little practice, you will be able to master the pronunciation of demi-French and speak like a native Parisian.

2025-01-13

Previous：Aqua French Pronunciation: A Comprehensive Guide

Next：Desserts: A Sweet Ending to Any Meal