The letter c can make two different sounds. It can sound like a k (hard “c”) or like an s (soft “c”).
Think of c as a tricky letter—it changes its sound depending on the letter that follows it.
The sound of c depends on the vowel after it. This rule helps readers and writers decide if c is hard or soft.
Remember this phrase: “C is soft before e, i, y, but hard before a, o, u.”
Here are some words you will often see that use both soft and hard “c.”
Soft “c” is more common in words borrowed from Latin and French. That is why English has many soft “c” words.
Practice reading and writing words with both soft and hard “c” sounds in full sentences to understand the difference.
When you are unsure, say the word out loud and listen carefully to the sound that c makes.
To master soft and hard “c,” practice sorting words into two groups: one for the soft sound and one for the hard sound.
Sorting words helps you see and hear patterns. The more you practice, the easier it will be to recognize soft and hard “c.”