Classification of Consonants

1
Classification of Consonants

• Distinctive Features

2
Distinctive Feature Classification

• A second way to classify consonants based on
  distinctive features
• According to df, phonemes are comprised of a
  bundle of features that make them distinct from
  any other phoneme
• df are binary with a or - used to denote
  the presence or absence of that feature in a
  particular phoneme
• Each df typically represents some physiological
  aspect of sound production
• EX. The feature voice represents the presence
  or absence of vocal fold vibration as voice or
  -voice

3
Distinctive Feature Classification

• There are several different distinctive feature
  classifications, but the one most commonly used
  is by Chomsky Halle (1968)
• In general, each distinctive feature relates to
  one of the three broad parameters of consonant
  production involving place, voice, or manner

4
Correspondence Between PVM and Distinctive
Features

• Distinctive Feature Place Voice Manner
• Sonorant X
• Continuant X
• Nasal X
• Syllabic X
• Consonantal X
• Delayed Release X
• Strident X
• Anterior X
• Coronal X
• Voice X