Understanding /θ/ and /ð/
The /θ/ and /ð/ sounds are some of the most difficult for English learners because they do not exist in many other languages. They are both made by placing the tongue between the teeth but differ in voicing.
/θ/ – A voiceless sound, as in think, both, path.
/ð/ – A voiced sound, as in this, brother, breathe.
Key Differences
Voicing – /θ/ is voiceless, meaning the vocal cords do not vibrate. /ð/ is voiced, meaning the vocal cords vibrate.
Tongue Position – Both sounds are pronounced with the tongue between the upper and lower front teeth.
Common Spelling Patterns
/θ/ – Usually spelled as “th” (e.g., think, thin, month).
/ð/ – Also spelled as “th,” but mostly found in function words (e.g., the, this, that, other).
Common Minimal Pairs
think /θɪŋk/ vs. this /ðɪs/
thin /θɪn/ vs. then /ðen/
breath /brɛθ/ vs. breathe /briːð/
path /pæθ/ vs. bathe /beɪð/
Example Sentence
"This path is thick with dust."
"Path" and "thick" contain the voiceless /θ/ sound.
"This" contains the voiced /ð/ sound.
How to Practice
Use a Mirror – Watch your tongue placement when saying /θ/ and /ð/.
Minimal Pair Drills – Practice saying words with /θ/ and /ð/ to hear the difference.
Listen and Imitate – Find recordings of native speakers pronouncing these sounds and repeat after them.
Feel the Vibration – Place your fingers on your throat; you should feel vibration for /ð/ but not for /θ/.
Conclusion
Mastering /θ/ and /ð/ will improve your English pronunciation and help you sound more natural. With practice, these tricky sounds will become easier!
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