English plosive contrasts are often described as voiced versus voiceless, yet initial /b d g/ typically lack vocal fold vibration during closure. What actually maintains the perceptual contrast in initial position?

D. A difference in the timing of voicing onset relative to the burst

English lenis plosives rely on an immediate onset of voicing after the release rather than true closure voicing. Aspiration creates a noticeable delay (VOT) in fortis stops, meaning listeners attend to release timing rather than closure duration or place shifts across pairs.