Let’s master the pronunciation of Japanese [tsu]

Abstract

• Can do : master the pronunciation of [tsu]
• Study style: practice while moving your body
• Tools: not in particular
• Preparation: words with [tsu] in.

How to (A)

Practice individual [tsu] sound with hand movement’s assist

1. poke your left hand palm
2. try pronouncing [ts] while doing 1.
   Tips: it shouldn’t be [ts]+[u]

Practice words with [tsu] sound in. practice separately according to the position of [tsu].

Use your hand movement. When you make it, practice without.

• Words with [tsu] sound on top: tsuki (moon), tsukue (desk)
• Words with [tsu] at the end: mittsu (three things), ikutsu (how many)
• Words with [tsu] in the middle: futsuu (normal), itsuka (someday)

How to (B)

Since your mouth will be the same shape when you pronounce [su] and [tsu], use [su] sound to practice [tsu] sound.

start with say [su]. Without changing your mouth shape, move your tongue to the back of your front upper teeth to pronounce [tsu]

Try to say [su-tsu] [su-tsu→sutsu][sutsu→tsu][tsu]

Practice using actual words.

1. Practice using [tsuushin (telecommunication)] and [chuushin (center of~)].
2. Pronunciate [tsuushin]and [chuushin]. Think about the meaning difference while pronunciating.

Think about how different [tsu] and [chu]are. Make your surroundings’ pronunciation your resource.