How to get the "TH" sound right

If you grew up speaking German, chances are your mouth isn't used to making the "TH" sound. That's why "this" can come out as "zis" and "think" can turn into "sink." It all comes down to where you put your tongue. Once you get that right, it feels much easier. Promise.

English has two "TH" sounds. One is just air, and the other uses your voice. Let's start with the easier one.

The voiceless "TH"

This is the "TH" in "thin," "think," and "three." To make it, put the tip of your tongue lightly between your top and bottom front teeth, so it peeks out a little. Then blow air out gently. There's no buzzing in your throat, just air.

Here are some words to practice:

• I need a hot bath after this long day.
• A moth flew in when I opened the window.
• Can you pass me a cloth?

Keep the sound light. Your tongue only needs to touch your teeth, not press against them.

Now try these sentences:

• Three thin cats sat on the fence.
• I thought the path was shorter than this.
• Thanks for thinking of me.

The voiced "TH"

This is the "TH" in "this," "that," and "the." Your tongue goes in exactly the same place, but this time you use your voice, so you feel a slight buzz.

Here are some words to practice:

• My brother helps me with my homework.
• This is exactly what I was looking for.
• Look over there!

Try touching your throat as you say them. You should feel the vibration.

Now try these sentences:

• This weather is better than that.
• Their mother told them to be there by three.
• I love this song, but that one is my favorite.

Watch out for these pairs

For German speakers, the "TH" often turns into an "s" or a "z," and sometimes that changes the word completely. Practice these pairs, and make sure your tongue comes forward for the first word each time.

• think / sink
• thank / sank
• mouth / mouse
• thing / sing

Putting it all together

Now that you know both sounds, let's practice them side by side:

• This thick cloth feels softer than that thin one.

"This," "than," and "that" use the voiced "TH." "Thick," "cloth," and "thin" use the voiceless one. Start slowly, feel the buzz on the voiced sounds, and keep the air flowing on the others. Once you're comfortable, try it a little faster.

Like anything new, it takes time. But if you keep practicing, the "TH" sound will stop feeling awkward and start feeling natural.

Still unsure if you're saying it right? Check out our Daily Dose of Denglisch Docs video for a step-by-step guide, so you can hear exactly how it should sound.