grapheme

[ˈɡraf.iːm]

grapheme Definition

the smallest unit of a writing system, representing a sound or a combination of sounds.

Using grapheme: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "grapheme" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    In the word 'cat', there are three graphemes: c, a, and t.

  • Example

    The English writing system has 26 letters but more than 40 graphemes.

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Summary: grapheme in Brief

A 'grapheme' [ˈɡraf.iːm] is the smallest unit of a writing system that represents a sound or combination of sounds. For example, the word 'cat' has three graphemes: c, a, and t. The English writing system has more than 40 graphemes despite having only 26 letters.