ShortConsonant contrast
Voiced vs Unvoiced TH Minimal Pairs
/θ/ and /ð/ pronunciation, listening, and reading practice
English spells two sounds with th. True one-word minimal pairs are rare, so this lesson combines strict pairs with controlled contrast sets.
Produce both sounds accurately
What changes in the mouth?
Unvoiced TH
Place the tongue tip lightly between the teeth; let air flow without voice.
Voiced TH
Keep the same gentle tongue position and add voice.
Accuracy note: Do not substitute /s/, /z/, /t/, or /d/. A small, relaxed tongue tip must remain visible for a clear English TH.
10 reviewed contrasts
Listen to the minimal pairs
Play both words in a row. First decide whether they sound the same or different; then repeat each word without adding an extra vowel.
Interactive practice
Listen and choose
Hear one word, then select the word you heard. Complete six questions and replay whenever you need to.
Listen carefully, then choose.
Meaning in context
Read both sounds in sentences
1Breathe in, then breathe out.
2These three books are thin.
3I thought that the bath was warm.
4Clothe the doll with this cloth.
Read once slowly for accuracy, then reread at a natural pace. Ask the learner to point to each target word and explain its meaning.
Deliberate practice
A five-minute teaching routine
Play four words and ask the learner to identify sound A or sound B.
Reveal the pair, say both words, and check the mouth cue above.
Read one sentence and discuss how changing the sound changes the word.
Hold a finger on the throat. Compare /θθθ/ with /ððð/ without changing the tongue position.
Offline review
Print this sound contrast lesson
The print view includes the mouth cues, reviewed pairs, accuracy note, sentences, and practice routine.