Zulu Language - Learning Using English 'Sounds' ? |
Robin
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Good luck with the clicks |
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Haydn Jones
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Robin has a fair point. Most books and dictionaries on isiZulu will give a guide as to the pronunciation of vowels and consonants but when it comes to the clicks - well, that is a whole different ball game. For example, pronunciation of 'q' is usually described either (technically) as the tongue against the palate or (less technically) similar to the sound of a cork coming out of a bottle. I do not know how one might express these in the phonic approach you mention. The same would apply to the other clicks, 'c' and 'x' not to mention all their aspirated and nasal versions........ Moreover, their could be areas of doubt on some consonants too - 'hl' for example where even on this Forum there has been debate in the past as to whether "Hlobane" is properly pronounced "shlobane" or "llobane" (a la Brecon Beacons!) (neither quite hits the mark incidentally). I think all I am trying to say is don't rely solely on a book, but rather, if you are serious about learning some Zulu, however basic, try to listen to it being spoken. There are plenty of CD packages around to help - just google "isiZulu". These will be far more helpful in pronunciation than just books although books are of course great for learning stuff like singular and plural - your "um"s from your "aba"s etc. You will soon get a basic grasp and it is quite fun when reading your AZW material not to stop and have to pause to think, "wonder how you say that?" Hope this is constructive. H |
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Guest
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Thought I'd add this for interest -
Webster's Zulu To English Crossword Puzzles. Webster's English To Zulu Crossword Puzzles. Both books by Philip M. Parker. An unusual concept, but an interesting approach. Coll |
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Zulu Language - Learning Using English 'Sounds' ? |
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