English Pronunciation: The TH Sounds

The "TH" Sounds: /θ/ and /ð/

The "TH" sounds are dental fricatives. They are unique because they require the tongue to interact directly with the teeth to restrict airflow.

How to Position Your Mouth

1. The Tongue: Place the tip of your tongue lightly between your upper and lower teeth.
2. The Air: Blow air out gently. The sound is created by the friction of air passing between the tongue and the teeth.

Voiceless vs. Voiced

Type IPA Symbol Mechanism Common Examples
Voiceless /θ/ Just air. No throat vibration. Think, Bath, Three
Voiced /ð/ Air + Voice. Throat vibrates. This, Father, Breathe

Practice Words

Soft /θ/ (Voiceless)

  • Healthy
  • Birthday
  • Everything
  • Tooth

Hard /ð/ (Voiced)

  • Weather
  • Mother
  • Although
  • Together

Common Mistakes

  • The "S" Trap: Saying "sink" instead of "think".
  • The "T" Trap: Saying "tin" instead of "thin".
  • The "D" Trap: Saying "dis" instead of "this".
Pro Tip: Use a mirror! You should be able to see the tip of your tongue. If your tongue stays hidden behind your teeth, you are likely making a "T" or "D" sound instead.