Soft C words – words list and pictures

Here are some more free pronunciation resources, this time about words that have the soft C sound. There is a soft C words list, some flashcards with pictures and words, and some practice sentences with words that use this English language rule.

What is the soft C? It is when the letter C is pronounced like an S in words such as sunny or soon. The other more common sound of the letter C is known as the hard C. This is when it sounds like a K, think of words such as cake or corn.

The simple soft C words rule for English language learners to follow is that when the letter C is followed by an E, I, or Y, it has a soft sound. In all other cases, it has a hard sound. This rule applies to almost all words. There are a few rare exceptions to this rule but it is very dependable overall.

Let’s look at a few examples  –

C followed by E – nice, slice, face, fence.

C followed by I – city, circus, circle, citrus.

C followed by Y – spicy, cyclone, icy, cylinder.

It is a very easy rule to learn and to teach. Hopefully, all is clear now and you can help your students identify soft C words quickly and with confidence. Below you will find some free resources to help you do so!