Soft C vs Hard C — Match & Check

If c sounds like s (like in circle), it’s a soft c. It often happens when c is followed by e, i, or y — like in cent, city, or cycle.

If c sounds like k (like in cat), it’s a hard c. It usually happens when c is followed by a, o, u, or another consonant — like in cake, cot, cup, or clip.


Type the matching **hard-C** word for each soft-C word. Small spelling changes flip the pronunciation — practice spotting them!

Tip: soft C usually before e, i, y (makes /s/). Hard C before a, o, u (makes /k/).
Score: —

How to use

  1. Type the hard-C partner word beside each soft-C word (e.g., cell → call).
  2. Click Check answers for instant feedback. Correct answers turn green; wrong answers show the correct word when you reveal.
  3. Use Show changed letters to highlight only the letters that differ between the pair.