One of the more challenging components of learning Arabic is pronunciation.
It cannot be avoided.
And some of them are really difficult!
Because it makes no difference how much of a new language you know if your pronunciation is incorrect.
No matter how extensive your vocabulary is. No matter how many grammar rules you are familiar with.
Poor pronunciation RUINS ANY CHANCE of speaking effectively.
The perfect pronunciation of Arabic is definitely within your reach, provided you understand how to pronounce the letters and put that knowledge into practice.
The full list of Arabic letter pronunciation drills that follow demonstrates the difference between Arabic’s strong/emphatic and light/non-emphatic sounds is below.
Also watch the video at the end of post to learn how to practice similar sounding Arabic Letters
List Of Similar Sound Letters
Confusing Sounds Special Cases
- Case of Alif
- Case Of waaw
- Case of Yaa
- Case of vowels
- short vowel – long vowel
These drills have instances that are paired off and may have extremely similar pronunciations.
There is no need to memorize the many definitions of these words at this time; simply note them in the numbered “Key to Vocabulary.”
Arabic Letters With Confusing Sounds
| ء | ع | ا | Group 1 | |
| ه | خ | ح | Group 2 | |
| ص | س | ث | Group 3 | |
| ط | ت | Group 4 | ||
| ض | ظ | ز | ذ | Group 5 |
| ك | ق | Group 6 |
Trick To Learn Arabic Letters With Confusing Sounds
- Read these words out loud several times as practice.
- Pay particular attention to how the letters and sounds in the right and left columns are pronounced differently.
- Together, practice reading the words by pairing up with a native speaker or a study partner.
- Make a note of the sounds you find challenging and the ones that need further practice. With your teacher, talk about them.