Pronunciation of X in English: A Complete Guide to All X Sounds

What Is the Pronunciation of X in English?

To fully understand the pronunciation of X, learners should know that the letter X does not have just one sound. Instead, its pronunciation changes depending on word position and spelling patterns.

In English, X commonly represents combinations of sounds rather than a single consonant. Learning these variations helps improve both speaking and listening accuracy.

Pronunciation of X as /ks/

The most common pronunciation of X is /ks/. This sound appears frequently, especially in the middle or at the end of words.

Examples:

• box

• six

• next

• extra

In this case, X sounds like the combination of /k/ + /s/. Learners should pronounce both sounds clearly.

Pronunciation of X as /gz/

Another important pronunciation of X is /gz/. This usually happens when X appears between vowels or before a stressed syllable.

Examples:

• exam

• example

• exact

• exist

The /gz/ sound is voiced, so learners should feel vibration in their throat when pronouncing it.

Pronunciation of X as /z/

In some words, the pronunciation of X becomes a simple /z/ sound. This often occurs when X is at the beginning of words of Greek origin.

Examples:

• xylophone

• xenon

• xenophobia

This pronunciation may surprise learners, so it is important to memorize common examples.

Pronunciation of X as /kʃ/

In certain words, especially those ending in “-xion,” the pronunciation of X changes to /kʃ/.

Examples:

• connection

• collection

• production

• fiction

Here, X combines with surrounding letters to create a completely different sound.

Silent X in English Pronunciation

In rare cases, the pronunciation of X may be silent, particularly in some proper names or borrowed words.

Examples:

• Sioux

• Bordeaux (borrowed spelling influence)

Although uncommon, learners should be aware that not every written X is fully pronounced.

References: Little Learners

Pronunciation of X at Different Word Positions

Understanding how position affects the pronunciation of X makes learning easier.

This pattern helps learners predict pronunciation more accurately.

Common Mistakes with the Pronunciation of X

Learners often struggle with the pronunciation of X due to its multiple sounds.

Common mistakes include:

• Pronouncing all X sounds as /ks/

• Forgetting voicing in /gz/

• Mispronouncing Greek-origin words

• Ignoring spelling patterns like “-xion”

Awareness of these errors helps learners self-correct more effectively.

Exercises: Practice the Pronunciation of X

Exercise 1: Identify the Sound of X

Choose the correct sound: /ks/, /gz/, /z/, or /kʃ/.

1. box

2. example

3. xylophone

4. connection

5. next

6. exist

Exercise 2: Group the Words by Sound

Words: exam, six, fiction, extra, xenon, exact

1. /ks/:

2. /gz/:

3. /z/:

4. /kʃ/:

Exercise 3: Choose the Correct Pronunciation

1. X in exam sounds like ___
   a) /ks/
   b) /gz/

2. X in box sounds like ___
   a) /ks/
   b) /z/

3. X in xylophone sounds like ___
   a) /z/
   b) /ks/

Exercise 4: Read Aloud

1. extra

2. exact

3. next

4. xylophone

5. fiction

6. example

Focus on correct sound and smooth transitions.

Exercise 5: Sentence Practice

1. She gave an excellent example.

2. The box is next to the desk.

3. He plays the xylophone very well.

4. This lesson explains the connection clearly.

5. They will examine the exact result.

Answer Key

Exercise 1:

1. /ks/

2. /gz/

3. /z/

4. /kʃ/

5. /ks/

6. /gz/

Exercise 3:

1. b

2. a

3. a

Improve the Pronunciation of X with Monkey Junior and M-Speak

Mastering the pronunciation of X is much easier with clear guidance and instant feedback. Monkey Junior provides a structured learning path that explains pronunciation rules step by step and reinforces them through practice.

With M-Speak pronunciation scoring technology, learners can practice speaking and receive immediate feedback on accuracy, sound choice, and clarity. This helps learners recognize which X sound they are producing and whether it matches native pronunciation.

Monkey Junior also integrates native-speaker audio, listening exercises, speaking drills, and interactive lessons. Multiple learning technologies work together to support pronunciation improvement with a clear and effective roadmap.

Start learning with Monkey Junior today to master the pronunciation of X confidently and accurately.

Conclusion

The pronunciation of X in English includes several different sounds, such as /ks/, /gz/, /z/, and /kʃ/. By understanding these patterns, practicing regularly, and using Monkey Junior with M-Speak pronunciation scoring, learners can pronounce X correctly in all contexts and communicate more clearly in English.