In what words is "s" pronounced like the English "z"?

Question

It certainly seems to be in misma/mismo and desde. . .are there any others?

And on the same topic, is the "z" always pronounced like an "s"?

Answer 1

In most Spanish words, the 'S' and 'Z' are pronounced identically. They are usually pronounced like the 's' in 'side', kind of like a hissing sound. However, when an 's' is before a(n) l, n, m, d, b/v, or g, it is pronounced with a slight buzz, like a 'z'. Don't stress the sound too much though.

• I agree. There is no "z" sound in Spanish -- it sounds like an "s." - --Mariana-- Oct 2, 2009

Answer 2

Here are some I could think of: isla, presidente and musica

• All with the "s" sound (i.e. unvoiced). - samdie Oct 2, 2009

Answer 3

The unvoiced sibilant (sound of "s" or, if you use the seseo, c/z/s) is replaced by the voiced variant (becomes voiced) before any voiced consonant. For a list of the voiced consonants, see Chililover's response.

Answer 4

So it's basically the same as the rule for pronouncing the "s" in making plurals in English, except the determining consonant comes after instead of before.

• Yes, I believe so. :) - Chobit Oct 2, 2009

Answer 5

There are probably tons. Rasar comes to mind.

No, 'z' sometimes can be pronounced as a 'z' or as a 'th' I believe.

• "rasar" shouldn't come to mind. However, "rasgar" should. - samdie Oct 2, 2009