The Sound of 'ற': An Allophonic Perspective

ஓரெழுத்து மூன்றோசைகள்

Abstract

Generally, in any language, each letter has a unique pronunciation sound. Some letters have a certain sound when pronounced alone and a strong or soft sound when pronounced with other letters. Some letters have the same sound whether pronounced alone or with other letters. This 'phonological inversion' is also present in Tamil letters. Although there are many letters in Tamil that have their own unique sounds everywhere, some letters also change their sounds depending on the place. Letters that change their sounds and are pronounced with a different sound from their own sounds can be referred to as 'erosai' letters. In this way, when there are letters in Tamil that give two types of sounds, it is surprising that only one letter can express three sounds in three different positions. Such a special thing is the strong consonant "ற". How is this letter pronounced with three sounds..? Is this correct..? Is there any alternative to this..? What does the grammar say..? This research explains all this.