Retroflex:
“Retroflex” is a term used in linguistics to describe a class of sounds that are produced with the tip of the tongue curled or raised toward the roof of the mouth, specifically the area behind the alveolar ridge.
Retroflex sounds are characterized by the backward movement or curvature of the tongue during articulation.
Tips for the “zh” sound:
- The tip of the tongue is curled upward and pressed against the roof of the mouth, behind the alveolar ridge.
- It is similar to the “zh” sound in the English word “judge.”
Tips for the “ch” sound:
- This is an aspirated voiceless retroflex affricate sound.
- The tip of the tongue is curled upward and briefly makes contact with the roof of the mouth behind the alveolar ridge before releasing a burst of air.
- It is similar to the “ch” sound in the English word “church.”
Tips for the “sh” sound:
- This is an aspirated voiceless retroflex fricative sound.
- The tip of the tongue is curled upward and positioned close to the roof of the mouth, producing a continuous airflow.
- It is similar to the “sh” sound in the English word “fish.”
Tips for the “r” sound:
- This is a retroflex approximant sound.
- The tip of the tongue is curled upward and approaches the roof of the mouth without making full contact.
- Alternatively, you can mimic the “sh” sound and hold the tongue in that position.
- Your lips should remain flat or in a smiling position before and during the utterance.