Pronunciation of "middle e"

William C.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

Pronunciation of "middle e"

It seems that with some adverbs formed by adding -ment to the feminine adjective form the "middle e" is pronounced and others not (example: lentement (not pronounce) and fortement (pronounced). Am I hearing this correctly? If so, is there a rule when to pronounce and when not to?

Thanks!

Asked 3 years ago
Chris W.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

The letter -e- in the middle of a word is often omitted in everyday French. It depends on the particular sounds following the -e- as well as the speed and register.

Pronunciation of "middle e"

It seems that with some adverbs formed by adding -ment to the feminine adjective form the "middle e" is pronounced and others not (example: lentement (not pronounce) and fortement (pronounced). Am I hearing this correctly? If so, is there a rule when to pronounce and when not to?

Thanks!

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