What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
retroflex
Example
In Hindi, the letter ट is pronounced with a retroflex sound. [retroflex: adjective]
Example
The speech therapist taught the child how to produce the retroflex 'r' sound. [retroflex: noun]
retracted
Example
The 'k' sound in 'speak' is retracted. [retracted: adjective]
Example
The child had difficulty producing the retracted 'l' sound. [retracted: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Retracted is a more common term used in everyday language, while retroflex is a more specialized term used mainly in linguistics and phonetics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between retroflex and retracted?
Retroflex has a more technical and formal connotation, while retracted can be used in both formal and informal contexts.