hard c

Core Rule

Hard C (Rule 41) means the letter c is pronounced /k/ rather than /s/. This occurs before a, o, u, consonants, and in many Greek-derived ch spellings. The rule explains why many academic words keep a hard, stable sound.

Articulation Guide

For /k/, raise the back of the tongue to the soft palate, stop the airflow briefly, then release with a clean burst.

Word Analysis

• architect: Greek arch- → /k/ sound.
• chemist: ch = /k/, not /tʃ/.
• psychiatrist: consistent Greek-based pronunciation.

Pitfalls

Do not assume ch equals /tʃ/. Always check word origin. Remember: c before e, i, y is usually soft /s/.