Cai vs Zai

In this lesson, we'll learn to clearly distinguish between “c” and “z” sounds in Mandarin—two sounds that are easy to confuse but very important for meaning.

1. Sound Focus: c vs. z
c (cài) → “ts” with a strong puff of air (aspirated)
z (zài) → “dz” with little or no air (unaspirated)