Soft C Rule

C makes the /s/ sound before E, I, or Y (soft C). Otherwise, C makes /k/ (hard C).

📖 Detailed Explanation

The letter C has two sounds in English: a "hard" sound /k/ (as in "cat") and a "soft" sound /s/ (as in "cent"). The rule is simple: C always says /s/ when followed by E, I, or Y. In all other cases, C says /k/.

✅ Examples (Rule Applies)

cent city cycle rice ace ice nice price

❌ Compare (Rule Does NOT Apply)

cat cup come car cool can

💡 Tips to Remember

Remember: C + E, I, or Y = /s/ sound
This rule has NO exceptions in English!
Common word endings: -ce, -cy, -cing

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