Usually described in terms of vowel pairs. Common in most languages of the world. Classification scheme 6. A sound usually produced with significant constriction of the vocal tract. Glides and nasals have minimal constriction and are sometimes referred to as semi-vowels.
Consonants serve as syllable markers, i.e., they release and arrest syllables.
Most constricted point in the vocal tract. See consonant chart. Way in which the speech mechanism moves, or is positioned, to produce the sound. Classification scheme 4.