Hindi speakers learning American English will, more than likely, experience some challenges in the development of their English pronunciation. Are you a Hindi speaker? Are you in pursuit of clear communication as you develop your English pronunciation? Most likely, you are encountering similar challenges also discovered by other Hindi speakers. This brief and informative article will address a few of these familiar struggles presenting effective tools for you to use as you improve your American English accent. This Article explores 3 of the most common English Mispronunciations of Hindi speakers, and the ways to correct them.
A commonly mispronounced sound is the voiced “TH” sound. Often, a Hindi speaker will use the “D” sound instead of the voiced “TH” sound. In American English, this sound is vocalized by placing the tongue on the front teeth as your vocal cords vibrate. “TH”…”TH”… It is useful to look in a mirror while you create this sound. Try pronouncing the words “these” and “those”. Can you see and feel your tongue vibrating on your teeth as you enunciate the words?
In the same way, the voiceless “TH” sound can present just as much of a problem for the Hindi speaker as the voiced “TH” sound. Usually, the “T” sound replaces the voiceless “TH” sound. To create the voiceless “TH” sound, the tongue is positioned on the front teeth exactly the same way as the voiced “TH” sound; however, the vocal cords are not used. While placing your tongue on your front teeth, gently push air through them to produce a quiet “TH” sound; be careful not to create a sudden puff of air. Try pronouncing the words “Think” and “thought” as you push air through your tongue and teeth at the beginning of the word. Notice how the quiet sound of air, at the beginning of the word, is gentle and not sudden. Now, listen closely to the example and see if it clarifies the sound for you.
At times, the “W” sound can be a stumbling block for Hindi speakers. Often, they will use the “V” sound instead. To articulate the “W” sound, you can bring your lips close together in a small circle while slightly pushing them forward. Be careful not to touch your upper teeth on your lower lip. Try making the sound: “Wuh”…”Wuh”… Now, use this sound to enunciate the words “will” and “what”. Practice makes perfect, so remember repetition is the name of the game. Before you know it, you’ll be speaking just like a native!
Zizifox.com is a unique tool for you to learn how to pronounce many of these frustrating and challenging words. You can search for a word that is giving you difficulty and a YouTube video will play giving an example of your search word right at the beginning of the video. These video clips will provide you with good illustrations of how the word is commonly used and pronounced in American English.
As you proceed in your acquisition of American English fluency, we’d like to make you aware of a successful, comprehensive program which is able to, not only provide you with effective ways to conquer these common Hindi challenges, but it will ensure that you will proficiently develop every pronunciation, linking, and fluency tip possible. You’ll find that you benefit extremely from interacting with your own personal pronunciation coach who will help you overcome specific challenges that you face as well as encourage you with every improvement. This well-rounded program will also help you become more familiar with expressions and topics found within the American culture. If you’re ready to take the next step in your English acquisition, come join us at ChatterFox!
