The Spanish letter represents a novel sound, much like the “ny” in “canyon” or the “ni” in “onion.” This palatal nasal consonant distinguishes Spanish from Latin and different Romance languages. A major instance is the phrase ao (12 months), derived from the Latin annus, demonstrating the sound shift over time.
This distinctive sound contributes considerably to the richness and id of the Spanish language. Its presence displays the evolution of spoken Latin within the Iberian Peninsula and gives a glimpse into the historic growth of the language. Preserving the safeguards this linguistic heritage and ensures correct pronunciation, essential for clear communication and understanding.