3. Initial Pairs
Cantonese has the following five initial pairs.
b p
d t
g k
z c
gw kw
Each initial pair consists of two initials which are produced with exactly the same parts of our mouth. The two initials only differ in whether it is unaspirated or aspirated.
| Unaspirated | Aspirated 💨 |
|---|---|
 When we say an unaspirated initial, only a small amount of air is emitted from our mouth. |  When we say an aspirated initial, a large amount of air is emitted from our mouth. The air creates a noticeable sound of breathing out. |
Listen to the initial pairs. In each pair, the first initial is unaspirated, and the second initial is aspirated.
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💡 Tips
You can check whether you say an unaspirated or aspirated initial correctly using the following trick. Place a small piece of paper closely in front of your mouth and then say the initial.
When an unaspirated initial is produced, the air emitted can barely move the paper.
When an aspirated initial is produced, the air emitted should be strong enough to move the paper.
