1. "i" followed by a consonant:
* Short, sharp "i" sound: like the "i" in "machine" or "bit."
* Examples: "livre" (book), "fille" (girl), "lit" (bed).
2. "i" followed by a vowel:
* "y" sound: similar to the "i" in "police" or "machine" but slightly softer.
* Examples: "miel" (honey), "ciel" (sky), "briller" (to shine).
3. "i" at the end of a word:
* Silent: the "i" is often silent at the end of a word, especially in masculine nouns.
* Examples: "midi" (noon), "ami" (friend), "taxi" (taxi).
* Exception: Some words ending in "i" are pronounced with a short "i" sound: "merci" (thank you), "taxi" (taxi), "bikini" (bikini).
4. "i" in "il," "ils," "elle," "elles":
* "il" and "ils" (he, they): pronounced like "ee-l" and "ee-ls"
* "elle" and "elles" (she, they): pronounced like "el" and "el" (the "e" is silent)
Important Note: There are some exceptions to these rules. The best way to learn the correct pronunciation is to listen to native speakers and practice regularly. Many online resources and pronunciation guides are available to help you with this.