The Structure of Breton 2 - Mutations introduction

Initial consonants of words in Celtic languages undergo mutation in certain conditions. This means that the first sound of the word changes to another sound. In Welsh, nine sounds can mutate: t, c, p, b, g, d, ll, m, rh.

Note that the sound in Welsh that is written F is pronounced as /v/, DD is pronounced /ð/ - as in the English word "these", TH is pronounced /q/ - as in the English word "three".

The nine initial consonants in Welsh that can mutate, 

and the three types of mutation

The eight initial consonants in Breton that mutate
and the four types of mutation

Mutations in Breton happen in certain conditions and environments: 

• after certain words ('mutators')
• depending upon gender and number of a noun and following adjectives
• to distinguish homophones

(Links to be added)

HARD MUTATION

SPIRANT MUTATION

SOFT MUTATION

MIXED MUTATION