Haa, Khaa, Jiim (ح، خ، ج)
Lesson 4
Pronunciation - Haa ح
The Arabic letter ح represents a sound unfamiliar to most English speakers. It's similar to the English 'h,' but pronounced with a stronger, more forceful breath. Think of the sound you make when fogging up a window with your breath – that's the sound you're aiming for. Watch this video for more clarification on pronunciation.
Pronunciation - Khaa خ
This sound is likely unfamiliar to English speakers, making a strong 'kha' sound. Watch the video below for a demonstration on how to pronounce it.
Pronunciation - Jiim ج
This letter is pronounced slightly different depending on which Arabic speaking country you're from.
In the Levant, its widely spoken like the sound made by 's' in the English word 'measure' and the 'j' in the French word 'je'
Or, the sound made by 'j' in the English word 'jam' - this is the Modern Standard Arabic pronunciation.
Additional Information
Cultural note: Egyptians generally pronounce the Arabic letter Jeem (ج) as a "g" sound (like the letter 'g' in the English word "gum."), but the pronunciation can vary depending on the region. In most other Arabic dialects, the letter Jeem is pronounced as a "j" sound.