simple vowel

When it is pronounced by itself, a is a central vowel. The tongue remains in a natural, relaxed position. It sounds similar to a as in “fa la la” in English.

• a

• u

• i

• e

（ ）is a rounded high front vowel. To produce this vowel, first position the tongue as if to pronounce i, then round the lips.

• a

• u

• o

• ü

（ ）is an unrounded high front vowel. Try to squeeze a smile and pull the corners of your mouth straight back. It is similar to the long vowel in the English word “sheep.”

• e

• i

• a

• u

（ ）is a rounded high back vowel. Pucker up your lips when pronouncing this sound. It is similar to the long vowel in the English word “coop,” but the tongue is raised higher and retracted more.

• o

• i

• u

• ü

Pronounced like the /er/ in English

To produce this vowel, first pronounce o, and then change the shape of the mouth from rounded to unrounded; At the same time spread the lips apart, as if you were smiling

• a

• o

• e

• u

（ ）is a rounded semi-high back vowel. You draw back your tongue and the lips are rounded.

Pronounced like the /o/ in English

• a

• u

• o

• e

Which one is the 1st tone?

• á

• ā

• à

• ǎ

Which one is the third tone?

• ǖ

• ǚ

• ǘ

• ǜ

Which one is the 4th tone?

• é

• ē

• è

• ě

which one is the 2nd tone?

• ó

• ō

• ò

• ǒ