CLASSIFICATION OF ENGLISH CONSONANTS

Abstract

This article examines the classification of English consonants from a phonetic and phonological perspective. It discusses the main principles used to categorize consonant sounds, including manner and place of articulation, voicing, the role of the soft palate, and articulatory force. The study is based on a qualitative analysis of linguistic literature and aims to present a systematic overview of the English consonant system. The results show that consonant classification is a complex but well-structured system that plays a significant role in meaning differentiation and effective communication. The article highlights the theoretical importance of consonant classification as well as its practical value for pronunciation teaching and language learning.