Question

Which part of the tongue is used to produce retroflex sounds?

• A. Tip
• B. Blade
• C. Back
• D. Root

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Tip

The tip of the tongue (apex) and the underside of the tongue (subapical region) are used to produce retroflex sounds.

• In retroflex sounds, the tongue tip curls backward toward the alveolar ridge or hard palate without making firm contact.

• These sounds are common in languages like Hindi, Tamil, and Mandarin Chinese, but they are not native to standard English.

• Examples of retroflex sounds (in IPA): /ʈ, ɖ, ɳ, ʂ, ʐ, ɭ, ɻ/.