NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

What is a consonant cluster?

1. A sequence of vowel sounds

2. A group of two or more consonants

3. A type of syllable structure

4. A single consonant sound

The correct answer is: A group of two or more consonants

A consonant cluster refers to a group of two or more consonant sounds that occur together in a word without any vowels intervening between them. This definition highlights that the key characteristic of a consonant cluster is the presence of multiple consonants grouped in sequence, which can be found at the beginning or end of words, or within syllables. For example, in the word "strength," the letters 'str' form a consonant cluster at the beginning. The other options do not accurately represent the concept of a consonant cluster. A sequence of vowel sounds pertains to vowel combinations, which is not relevant to consonant clustering. A type of syllable structure generally refers to the organization of vowels and consonants in a complete syllable rather than specifically focusing on the clustering of consonants. A single consonant sound does not encompass the idea of a group of consonants acting together as a cluster. Therefore, identifying a consonant cluster as a group of two or more consonants is the most accurate definition.