DUE 13 JUNE 2025
MULLAH_DES
, Question 1: Phonetics – Places of Articulation (12 Marks)
1.1 The alphabet m is a bilabial sound because it is produced
by bringing both lips (upper and lower) together and allowing
air to pass through the nose. Below are more examples based
on other places of articulation:
a) Palatal
Example word: yes
Explanation: The sound /j/ as in yes is a palatal sound
because it is produced by raising the middle part of the
tongue towards the hard palate (roof of the mouth). It is
named after the palate, where the sound is articulated.
b) Alveolar
Example word: time
Explanation: The sound /t/ is produced by placing the
tip of the tongue against the alveolar ridge, the small
ridge just behind the upper front teeth. This place of
articulation is called alveolar because of that ridge.
c) Labio-dental
Example word: fan
Explanation: The sound /f/ is made by touching the
bottom lip to the upper front teeth. Since it involves
both the lips (labio) and the teeth (dental), it is called a
labio-dental sound.