The Universal Atlas of Phonetic Evolution
Back to Matrix [j] → [ɭ] Edit this Data

[ɭ]→[j]Certainty: 4/5Commonality: 3/5

Voiced retroflex lateral approximant to Voiced palatal approximant

The transformation from the voiced retroflex lateral approximant /ɭ/ to the voiced palatal approximant /j/ is not typically a direct, complete substitution. Instead, it often manifests as a phonetic realization where the retroflex lateral approximant is produced with a significant palatal glide component, or as part of a sequence that includes a palatal approximant. This process involves a shift in the place of articulation from retroflex to palatal, often accompanied by a modification or loss of the distinct lateral quality of the original retroflex sound.

Phonetic Effects

Palatalization, Vocalization, Loss of Retroflexion, Emergence of Palatal Approximant

Language Examples

ɭ→jl— The retroflex lateral approximant /ɭ/ is realized as a sequence of palatal glide plus alveolar lateral in certain environments. For instance, the word 'arlenge' [ɐɭəŋə] might be pronounced [ɛjləŋə].

Related Transformations

More Vocalization Shifts

Sources & References

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