Consonant Cluster

Definition

A consonant cluster is two or more consonants together, such as STR in STRAP or NK in BLINK. Clusters follow phonotactic rules that limit which combinations are legal.

Why it matters

Recognising legal clusters helps you build valid candidates and reject impossible ones quickly.

Examples

• STR- in STRONG.
• -MP in CAMP.

Best practices

• Learn common onset and coda clusters.
• Reject illegal consonant sequences.

Frequently asked