Two Theories of Onset Clusters

Onset clusters refer to consonant clusters, such as [pl] and [pr], and consonant-glide clusters, such as [kw] and [pj], that occur at the beginning of a syllable. Which clusters are used in a language is usually explained in terms of sonority scale. I argue instead that the occurring clusters are in fact complex single sounds. I first point out the shortcomings of the sonority approach. Then I introduce articulator-based feature theory, which defines possible complex sounds. Next I survey each onset cluster in Chinese and English and argue that it can be represented as a single complex sound. An initial coronal fricative, such as [s] or [∫], can also be added to an English syllable, which every theory must accommodate. The present proposal is simpler, accounts for more facts, and shows a similarity between Chinese and English.