Here's why:
* Sound: The "y" in "delay" makes a consonant sound, similar to the "y" in "yes" or "you".
* Position: It's positioned before a vowel ("e") and creates a single syllable.
* Pronunciation: The "y" sound is not a distinct vowel sound, but rather a part of the consonant blend "dl".
Let me know if you'd like to explore other words or sound patterns!