Exploring the Sounds

of 'th'
The English language features two distinct 'th' sounds - voiced and voiceless.
This presentation will guide you through the differences, provide examples, and
illustrate the proper tongue placement for each.
Voiced 'th' Sound
1 Definition
The voiced 'th' sound is produced by
placing the tongue between the teeth
and allowing air to flow through, while
the vocal cords vibrate.
2 Examples
Common words with the voiced 'th'
sound include 'the', 'this', 'that', and
'them'.

3 Usage
The voiced 'th' is the more common of the two 'th' sounds in English and is used in many
everyday words.
Voiceless 'th' Sound
1 Activity 1: Tongue
Twisters
Practice the voiceless 'th'
sound with tongue twisters
like:
"Three thin thieves thought
a thousand thoughts."
2 Activity 2: Word
Hunt
Go on a word hunt and
find as many words as you
can with the voiceless 'th'
sound. Write them down
and practice saying them
aloud.
3 Activity 3:
Pronunciation
Practice
Record yourself saying
words with the voiceless
'th' sound. Listen to the
recordings and compare
them to native English
speakers. Identify areas for
improvement and practice
some more.
Comparison of Voiced and Voiceless 'th'
Voiced 'th' Voiceless 'th' Tongue Placement

The vocal cords vibrate, creating The vocal cords do not vibrate, Both sounds are produced by
a soft, buzzing sound. resulting in a hissing, airy sound. placing the tongue between the
teeth.
Placement of the Tongue for 'th' Sounds

Step 1
Place the tip of the tongue between the upper and lower teeth.

Step 2
Apply gentle pressure against the teeth with the tongue.

Step 3
Allow air to flow through the gap between the teeth and tongue.
Examples of Words with Voiced 'th'

The This Them Smooth

A common determiner A demonstrative A personal pronoun An adjective describing
used to identify a pronoun used to refer to used to refer to people a surface that is even
specific person or thing. something close at hand. or things. and without bumps.
Examples of Words with Voiceless 'th'
1 Think
A verb meaning to have a particular idea or opinion.

2 Thin
An adjective describing something that is of little thickness.

3 Breath
A noun referring to the air drawn into and expelled from the lungs.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Voiced 'th' Voiceless 'th'

Vocal cords vibrate Vocal cords do not vibrate

Soft, buzzing sound Hissing, airy sound

Common in everyday words Less common, often confused

Mastering the distinction between voiced and voiceless 'th' sounds is an important step in improving English
pronunciation. With practice and awareness, you can master this key aspect of the language.