French pronunciation: Semi-voyelles - /j/

Sample pronunciation audio

Start with one sample audio file for semi-voyelles - /j/.

Quick tip

Semivowels are produced like vowels but function as consonants.

Letters and IPA

Practice words

• fille

• yeux

• payer

• voyage

• moyen

Minimal pairs

• payer / paie
• moyen / moine
• voyage / voilage
• fille / file
• payer / pailler

How to produce this sound

The /j/ sound is like the 'y' in 'yes'. Place your tongue close to the roof of your mouth, just behind your teeth, and let the air pass smoothly.

Common mix-ups

• fille / file
• payer / paie
• voyage / voilage
• moyen / moine
• payer / pailler

Closest comparison

yes, yellow, yoga, youth, yard