Pronunciation of 12 in Mandarin
In Mandarin Chinese, the pronunciation of the number 12 is a crucial skill to master, especially for those who are learning the language. Correct pronunciation can make a huge difference in communication and understanding. In this article, we will explore the correct way to pronounce 12 in Mandarin.
The Character for 12
The character for 12 in Mandarin is (shí èr). It consists of two characters: (shí) meaning "ten" and (èr) meaning "two".
Pronunciation of (shí)
The character (shí) is pronounced as "shr" with a slight tongue curl. The "sh" sound is similar to the "sh" sound in the English word "shoe", but with a more retroflex quality. The tone for (shí) is a rising tone, which means that the pitch of your voice rises when pronouncing it.
Pronunciation of (èr)
The character (èr) is pronounced as "er" with a neutral tone. The "e" sound is similar to the "e" sound in the English word "bet", and the "r" sound is similar to the "r" sound in the English word "red".
**Pronunciation of 12 ()
To pronounce 12 in Mandarin, combine the pronunciation of (shí) and (èr). The correct pronunciation is "shr er" with a rising tone on the first syllable and a neutral tone on the second syllable.
Tips for Correct Pronunciation
- Pay attention to the retroflex quality of the "sh" sound in (shí). It should sound like "shr" rather than "sh".
- Make sure to pronounce the "r" sound in (èr) correctly. It should be a soft "r" sound, similar to the "r" sound in the English word "red".
- Practice the rising tone on (shí) and the neutral tone on (èr).
- Listen to native speakers and try to mimic their pronunciation.
Conclusion
Pronouncing 12 in Mandarin Chinese requires attention to detail and practice. By mastering the correct pronunciation of (shí) and (èr), you can improve your overall Mandarin skills and communicate more effectively. Remember to practice regularly and listen to native speakers to improve your pronunciation.
