ABSTRACT
This chapter examines some basic points concerning Japanese pronunciation. In general, Japanese vowels are similar to their Spanish or Italian counterparts. Compared to some other world languages, Japanese has fewer sounds, and simpler sound combinations. However, to attain native-like pronunciation, one needs to master not only individual sounds but also the rhythm. Words of foreign origin are adjusted so that each syllable conforms to the permissible syllable structure in Japanese. For instance, the English word present becomes purezento because syllables like pre and sent do not exist in Japanese. The MORA is the basic rhythmic unit in Japanese. Words of foreign origin are adjusted so that each syllable conforms to the permissible syllable structure in Japanese. The Mora is the basic rhythmic unit in Japanese. A short syllable like u or ka consists of one mora.
