Explanation

Some consonants can form syllables by themselves in Yoruba. The sound [n] is special because it can be a whole syllable alone. It does not need a vowel with it.

Examples include “n-lo” (I am going) where “n” is its own syllable. Most consonants need vowels, but [n] can stand alone in Yoruba.

Syllabic consonants are unique features of languages. In Yoruba, [n] and [m] can both work this way.