Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Washington Master Esthetics Exam with comprehensive materials. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each providing detailed hints and explanations. Ensure success in your licensing exam!

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What sound is made when pronouncing the letter combination "ps"?

P
S
Silent
Both P and S

The correct answer is: S

The correct answer is that the letter combination "ps" produces the sound of S. In English phonetics, the "p" is usually a voiceless consonant that does not carry over into the sound when combined with "s" in this case. Typically, the "p" will be silent in familiar contexts, such as in the word "psychology," where we only hear the "s" sound. Understanding the rules of pronunciation with letter combinations is important, particularly in fields where precise speech and terminology are crucial, such as in esthetics and the communication of skincare product ingredients. In some instances, like in the word "lapse," you may detect the "p" sound, but in the specific question regarding the sound of "ps" as a combination, it leads primarily to the "s" sound being recognized audibly. This illustrates how English can present unique pronunciations based on the context and arrangement of letters.