The Mexican Food Lover's Guide to Spanish Pronunciation
This guide is designed for the Mexican food lover. In America we are constantly
exposed to Spanish words and Spanish pronunciation. Most Spanish students know
more about Spanish pronunciation than they realize; especially if they enjoy eating
delicious Mexican food. This list is designed to show you just how much you already
know about Spanish pronunciation.
The Vowels – Las Vocales
The Consonants – Los Consonantes
Unlike in English, Spanish vowels have one
pronunciation. There are no long or short
sounds. Here are the pronunciations:
This obviously is not a comprehensive list of
consonants; but rather, this list contains only the
consonants that differ from their English
counterparts.
A – as in Salsa
E – as in Enchilada
I – as in Burrito
O – as in Taco
U – as in Chalupa
G – When “G” is followed by an “E” or an “I” it is
pronounced with a clearing of the throat sound
similar to a hard “H” sound in English. Otherwise it
is pronounced the same as it is in English. Think:
Guacamole.
H – generally silent as in hombre. When used in
combination with the letter “C,” it makes the same
sound as it does in English. Think: Nachos Grande.
J – Has a milder clearing of the throat sound, almost
like an “H.” Think: Fajitas.
LL – Two “L’s” together make a “Y” sound. Think:
Tortillas or Quesadillas.
Ñ – The “tilde” or accent mark somewhat represents
what you will do with your tongue. Think: Jalapeño.
Q – The “Q” is always followed by a “U” just as in
English. However, it is pronounced with a “K” sound.
Think: Quesadilla.
RR – When two “R’s” are put together, they make a
rolled “R” sound similar to a cat purring. Think:
Burrito (with an over the top Spanish accent).
Z – In Latin America the “Z” is pronounced like an
“S.” Think: Feliz Navidad. In Spain, it sounds more
like a “TH.”