What You Will Learn
This lesson introduces the Haitian Creole alphabet and some of its most important spelling features.
It will make it easier for you to read and write in Creole.
Haitian Creole Alphabet
a an b ch d e è en f g h i j k l m n ng o ò on ou oun p r s t ui v w y z
Key Features of the Haitian Creole Alphabet
- In standard Haitian Creole spelling, the letters c and u are not used on their own.
1. In standard spelling, you will usually see the letter c only next to h, in the form ch.
Examples
Chalè (Heat), Chante (Sing), Chita (Sit down)
2. In standard spelling, you will usually see the letter u next to o or i, in the forms ou, oun, or ui.
Examples
Out (August), Moun (People), Uit (Eight)
- The letters q and x are not part of standard Haitian Creole orthography.
1. When words are written in standard Haitian Creole spelling, the sounds often written with q or qu in other languages are usually written with k or kw, depending on the word.
Examples
Kesyon (Question), Kalite (Quality), Kwizin (Kitchen)
2. The letter x is also not part of standard Haitian Creole spelling. In words of foreign origin, its sound is often written with ks or sometimes gz, depending on pronunciation.
Examples
Tèks (Text), Klowòks (Bleach), Egzamen (Exam)
Foreign names, brand names, and very recent loanwords may not always follow these patterns exactly.
Learn How to Pronounce Words in Haitian Creole
As you have seen in this lesson, Haitian Creole spelling is relatively regular and straightforward. Still, it is important to learn how these letters and letter combinations are pronounced in real words.
This lesson is only part one of a complete pronunciation series. After reviewing this lesson, please visit our Haitian Creole pronunciation guide.