One of the most common pronunciation mistakes for Spanish and Portuguese speakers is confusing the English D sound /d/ with the voiced TH sound /ð/.
This leads to saying "day" instead of "they", or "udder" instead of "other". While native speakers might understand you, it's a clear sign of a foreign accent. Let's fix it!
The Critical Difference
Both sounds are voiced (your vocal cords vibrate), but the manner of articulation is different:
- /d/ is a STOP: The tongue blocks the air completely, then releases it with a small "pop".
- /ð/ is a FRICATIVE: The air flows continuously between your tongue and teeth. It sounds like a buzz.
Tongue Position
- For D /d/: The tip of your tongue touches the alveolar ridge (the bumpy part behind your upper teeth). It does NOT touch the teeth.
- For TH /ð/: The tip of your tongue comes between your teeth (or touches the bottom of your upper teeth). You must be able to blow air past it.
Minimal Pairs Practice
Listen to the difference between these words. The only difference is the D vs TH sound.
Practice Sentences
Try these sentences slowly. Focus on sticking your tongue out for TH and keeping it back for D.
- They didn't dare to go there during the day.
- Those dogs are dozing in the den.
- My dad thinks that dough is better than this one.
- Breathe deeply before you breed the animals.
- The other udder was hidden by the ladder.
Pro Tip for Spanish Speakers: In Spanish, the 'd' between vowels (like in "cada" or "todo") is actually pronounced like the English TH /ð/! So you already know how to make this sound. Use that soft 'd' sound for English TH words like "other" or "father". But for English D, use a hard, explosive sound like 'd' in "donde".