The "E" rule:
* The most common way to pronounce a final consonant in French is when it's followed by a silent "e". For example:
* "le chat" (the cat): The "t" is pronounced because it's followed by the silent "e".
* "un petit" (a small): The "t" is pronounced because it's followed by the silent "e".
Other exceptions:
* "c" followed by "k": The "c" is pronounced as a "k" when followed by a vowel sound. For example:
* "un banc" (a bench): The "c" is pronounced as "k" because it's followed by the vowel sound "a".
* "g" followed by "k": Similar to "c", the "g" is pronounced as a "k" when followed by a vowel sound. For example:
* "un bagage" (a luggage): The "g" is pronounced as "k" because it's followed by the vowel sound "a".
* "l" at the end of a word: This is often pronounced, especially in informal speech. For example:
* "un travail" (a work): The "l" is often pronounced, though it's softer than in English.
Important note: Even with these exceptions, pronunciation can be nuanced and influenced by regional accents and the context of the word.
Let me know if you want to explore specific words or have other French pronunciation questions!