3.2 English syllable
English allows the following monosyllabic words (words consisting of one syllable); the colon shows that the vowel is long):
| Word | Syllable shape
|
Description |
| See | CV: | simple onset, no coda |
| Seat | CV:C | simple onset, simple coda |
| Tree | CCV: | complex onset, no coda |
| Street | CCCV:C | very complex onset, simple coda |
| Treats | CCV:CC | complex onset, complex coda |
| Strengths | CCCVCCC | very complex onset, very complex coda |
We can see that the maximum size of the onset in English is three consonants, as is the maximum size of the coda. It is relevant to examine the kinds of consonants that can occur in different positions; these examples show the privileged status that liquid consonants enjoy as the second element in onset clusters, and the privileges that are associated with /s/ as the “outermost” (furthest from the vowel) member of clusters, both in the onset and in the coda. Phonotactic knowledge is generally not conscious, it demands consistent awareness-raising. Many of the above combinations are not possible in Spanish and Spanish speakers will therefore have difficulties pronouncing them.