Italian GLI and GN Sounds

January 24, 2026

GLI and GN are two uniquely Italian sounds that don't exist as single letters in English. These sounds give Italian its distinctive, melodic quality - and they appear in some of the most common Italian words.

Let's master both sounds:

1. The GLI Sound

GLI sounds like the "LLI" in "million" or "brilliant". Your tongue presses flat against the roof of your mouth, similar to making an L, but wider.

If you can say "million" naturally, you can make the GLI sound! The middle of that word contains exactly the sound you need.

2. The GN Sound

GN sounds like the "NY" in "canyon" or the "NI" in "onion". It's similar to the Spanish Ñ sound.

3. GN in Titles and Names

You'll frequently encounter GN in Italian titles and place names:

Fun fact: Americans typically mispronounce "Bologna" (the lunch meat). In Italian, it's "boh-LOH-nyah," not "baloney"!

4. How to Practice GLI

1. Start with English: Say "million" slowly. Focus on the "lli" part.
2. Isolate the sound: Try to say just the "lli" sound by itself.
3. Feel your tongue: Your tongue should press flat and wide against the roof of your mouth.
4. Add Italian words: Now try "figlio" - fee + the "lli" sound + oh.

5. How to Practice GN

1. Start with English: Say "canyon" or "onion." The middle sound is your GN.
2. Isolate the sound: Try to say just the "ny" sound.
3. Feel your tongue: Your tongue should press against the roof of your mouth, similar to N, but with the middle of your tongue rising up.
4. Add Italian words: Now try "gnocchi" - start with the "ny" sound, then add "oh-kee."

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Don't pronounce G separately in GN: "Gnocchi" is NOT "g-noh-kee." The G is part of the GN sound.
2. Don't skip the sound: Some learners try to simplify GLI to just "L" or GN to just "N." Italians will notice!
3. Don't rush: Give these sounds their full value. They're smooth and connected, not hurried.

7. Quick Reference Chart