japanese consonants

LILTRINA · (#1 (**permalink**))

hey every1, i just started learning how to talk japanese. but there is something really confusing me. the program that is teaching me said that all consonants sound the same like english consonants. except R and F. and R sound like L and D mixed together. so my question is with words like hashiru do i say the R like a L and a D or like a regular english R?

i know its confusing but thats the best way i can think of saying it. can someone help me PLEASE!!

RacerX · (#2 (**permalink**))

It's halfway between an "R" and a "D."

LILTRINA · (#3 (**permalink**))

oh ok, thanx 4 the help

Zagato289 · (#4 (**permalink**))

Hi Liltrina
My name is Zagato. I just started learning Japanese too. I'm taking lessons online from a Japanese teacher.

Yes, Japanese consonants are similar to those in English. The r, in Japanese, is different from the English r.

To make the Japanese r, lightly touch the tip of your tongue to the bony ridge behind the upper teeth, almost in the English d position. Its more like the Spanish r.

Well I hope this can help you.

If you have any more questions you can message me if you want to.

LILTRINA · (#5 (**permalink**))

thanx zagato, that hepl alot

ill be sure to hit u up

koneko2 · (#6 (**permalink**))

Actually the consonant R in Japanese used to be pronounced like the English R in the Edo period. Try listening to Japanese Enka (some sort of traditional japanese songs) and you will notice that they still sing it as R.

But when spoken, just pronounce it as L is ok.