Why is it le hautbois instead of l'hautbois?

J. L.C1Kwiziq community member

Why is it le hautbois instead of l'hautbois?

Is this an exception to the "h" rule that "le hautbois / du hautbois" is not "l'hautbois / de l'hautbois"?

Asked 4 years ago
Chris W.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

Le hautbois starts with an aspirated "h" (h aspiré). Contrary to the silent "h" (h muet), they don't contract and are considered a consonant. Here is more on this topic: https://www.lawlessfrench.com/pronunciation/h-aspire/

 

J. L. asked:View original

Why is it le hautbois instead of l'hautbois?

Is this an exception to the "h" rule that "le hautbois / du hautbois" is not "l'hautbois / de l'hautbois"?

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