The pronunciation of
the letters J and Y in English

What is the difference between J and Y in English?

In English, there is an important difference between the sounds of the letters J and Y. When we pronounce J, as in the word jump, the tongue briefly touches the roof of the mouth, creating a sharp, explosive sound. On the other hand, when pronouncing Y, as in the word yes, the tongue comes close to the roof of the mouth but doesn't touch it, producing a softer, more continuous sound.

Both sounds are voiced, meaning the vocal cords vibrate when producing them. It's important to practice this difference, as mispronouncing these letters can change the meaning of words. Click on the audio links below to listen to and repeat the sounds.

The first word in each row in the table below has the letter J. The second word has the letter Y. Click on the word to hear and repeat the pronunciation.

The pronunciation of the letters J and Y in English
The Letter J	The Letter Y
► joke	► yolk
► jam	► yam
► jail	► Yale
► jeers	► years
► Jess	► yes
► jet	► yet
► Jello	► yellow
► jot	► yacht
► Jew	► you
► jewel	► Yule
► Jack	► yak
► Jen	► yen