air Alphabet and tones
Nasal vowels in Fon
Besides its 7 oral vowels, fɔ̀ngbè has 5 nasal vowels (a, ɛ, i, ɔ, u followed by an n). They give the language its distinctive sound.
The 5 nasal vowels
Why the “n” after?
The “n” that follows a vowel is not a pronounced consonant — it marks nasalization. The vowel is pronounced while letting air pass through the nose.
Vowel/nasal-vowel minimal pairs
These pairs distinguish two words by nasalization alone:
Tip
French speakers sometimes confuse Fon “an” (a pure nasal) with French “an” (more closed). Open your mouth a little wider and let the air pass through your nose.
5 vowels that nasalize everything
Mastering the 5 nasal vowels unlocks the correct pronunciation of thousands of common words. Practice them from the very first weeks.
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- Getting started in Fon: the 4-step method — tones, first words, resources
- The Fon video course: see the program — 79 lessons with a native speaker from Cotonou, taught in French
- What is your Fon level? — the free 15-question test