How to Pronounce the 'th' Sound

English has two th sounds, and many languages have neither. With practice, both become easy.

Step 1: Find the position

Place the tip of your tongue lightly between your top and bottom teeth.

Step 2: The voiceless th /θ/

Blow air gently over your tongue without using your voice. Words: think, three, bath, month.

Step 3: The voiced th /ð/

Keep the same position, but switch on your voice — you should feel a buzz. Words: this, mother, breathe, they.

Common slips to avoid

• think said as tink or sink
• this said as dis or zis

Practice sentences

• Three thin thieves thought a thousand thoughts.
• This is the third thing my brother said.

Try it: record yourself saying the practice sentences, then listen back.