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If you’ve ever wondered how to pronounce ch in English, you’re not alone! The tricky thing about ch is that it doesn’t always sound the same. In fact, there are three common ways to pronounce it, which often confuse ESL and EFL learners. This guide will walk you through the rules for each ch sound, with clear explanations and plenty of real examples to help you practise and get it right every time.
What Are the 3 ‘Ch’ Sounds in English?
When learning how to pronounce ch in English, it’s important to know that this two-letter combination can make three different sounds. Each sound appears in different types of words, which is why it can be confusing for ESL and EFL learners.
Here are the three ch sounds you need to know:
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/tʃ/ – the most common, like in chair, cheese, and chocolate
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/k/ – found in some Greek-based words, like in school, character, and chemistry
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/ʃ/ – used in French loanwords, like in chef, machine, and brochure
Read on, and I’ll tell you when to use each sound, easy rules for remembering them and plenty of examples to help you practise.
