Alphabet & Sounds

Learn the High Valyrian alphabet and basic pronunciation rules

Lesson 1 of 6

The High Valyrian Alphabet

High Valyrian uses a modified Latin alphabet with 22 letters. Unlike English, High Valyrian pronunciation is very consistent, making it easier to learn how to read once you understand the basic rules.

Vowels

High Valyrian has 5 basic vowels:

A - pronounced like "a" in "father"
E - pronounced like "e" in "let"
I - pronounced like "ee" in "see"
O - pronounced like "o" in "go"
U - pronounced like "oo" in "moon"

Consonants

Most consonants are similar to English with a few exceptions:

J - pronounced like "y" in "yes"
R - slightly rolled, like Spanish "r"
V - pronounced between English "v" and "w"
Z - pronounced like "z" in "zebra"

Pronunciation Rules

High Valyrian pronunciation follows consistent rules. Here are some key principles:

Stress typically falls on the second-to-last syllable
All letters are pronounced (no silent letters)
Double consonants are pronounced longer than single ones
Vowel combinations (diphthongs) are pronounced as single sounds

Common Diphthongs

[eye]

[ow as in how]

[way]

[yeh]

Your First High Valyrian Words

Let's practice with some basic High Valyrian words:

Valar

[VAH-lar]

All men

Morghūlis

[mor-GHOO-lis]

Must die

Dohaeris

[doh-HAE-ris]

Must serve

Dracarys

[drah-KAR-iss]

Dragonfire

Cultural Note

The phrase "Valar morghūlis" (All men must die) is a common greeting in Essos, particularly among the Faceless Men of Braavos. The customary response is "Valar dohaeris" (All men must serve).