LoginThe Letter Z in British English
In this lesson, we will learn about all the sounds of the letter Z. It is the twenty-sixth and final letter of the English alphabet. Let's begin, then.
Z is the twenty-sixth and final letter of the English alphabet.
Consonants are sounds that are pronounced with restriction in the vocal tract.
| Uppercase Form | Z |
|---|---|
| Lowercase | z |
| Name | zed (pronounced /ˈzɛd/) |
| Common Sounds | /z/, /s/ |
The Letter Z: Sounds
Common Sounds
The letter Z has two common sounds:
Sound 1: /z/
The letter 'z' normally sounds /z/ before a vowel:
li
snee
Sound 2: /s/
The letter 'z' also sounds /s/ if it is placed after a consonant:
Walt
pret
ec
rit
The Letter Z: Multigraphs
'Z' can be combined with other letters, mainly consonants.
zz
'zz' sounds /z/:
pu
bli
fi
Tip
However, 'zz' in the loanword 'pizza' sounds /ts/.
pi
Warning
The letter 'zu' sounds /ʒ/ in the word /seizure/:
sei
The Letter Z: Use
The letter Z can be
Synonym with 'sleep' in informal North American English if it is used plural: Z's, like:
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