American English sound
Y /j/
Learn how to hear and produce the Y sound with IPA, simple spelling, example audio, and coaching videos.
Watch the sound
Inside the mouth
Close-up example
Full coaching video
Master the Y soundWatch full coaching video (1:06)
How to Make the Y Sound
Where
The of the tongue reaches up and gently touches the , then lowers (palatal)
How
Airflow is partially blocked, but not enough to create a hissing sound ()
Voice
vibrate (Voiced)