Say th for Think and s for Sink correctly

The difference between the words “think” and “sink” comes down to exactly where you place your tongue and how you shape your mouth. For “think,” you use the unvoiced “th” sound, requiring your tongue to peek between your teeth. For “sink,” you use the “s” sound, keeping your tongue behind your top teeth with your lips slightly pulled back. Mastering this distinction is a common hurdle in English pronunciation, but adjusting your physical articulation will immediately clarify your speech.

How to Pronounce the ‘th’ in Think

The “th” in “think” is a voiceless dental fricative. “Voiceless” means your vocal cords do not vibrate, and “dental” means your teeth are involved. Many language learners substitute this sound with “s”, “z”, “t”, or “d”, which changes the meaning of the word entirely.

To form the “th” sound correctly:

• Place the very tip of your tongue lightly between your upper and lower front teeth.
• Keep your teeth slightly apart; do not bite down hard on your tongue.
• Push a steady stream of air over your tongue and through your teeth.
• Ensure your throat is relaxed and your vocal cords are not vibrating (you can test this by touching your throat; you should feel no buzz).

How to Pronounce the ‘s’ in Sink

The “s” in “sink” is a voiceless alveolar sibilant. “Alveolar” refers to the bumpy ridge on the roof of your mouth just behind your upper front teeth. Unlike the “th” sound, your tongue never touches your teeth when making a crisp, clear “s”.

To form the “s” sound correctly:

• Bring your upper and lower teeth close together, almost touching.
• Pull the corners of your mouth back slightly, like a snake hissing or a subtle smile.
• Place the tip of your tongue just behind your upper front teeth, resting near the alveolar ridge.
• Push a narrow, focused stream of air through the small gap between your tongue and the roof of your mouth.

Practice Minimal Pairs for Think vs Sink

The most effective way to train your muscle memory for think vs sink pronunciation is to practice minimal pairs. Minimal pairs are words that differ by only one sound. Alternating between these words forces your tongue to quickly switch between the dental “th” position and the alveolar “s” position.

When practicing these pairs, exaggerate the mouth movements at first. Make sure your tongue actually touches your teeth for the “th” words, and then quickly pulls back for the “s” words. Say the words slowly, then gradually increase your speed as the physical movement becomes more natural.