Tools for Clear Speech

Use the record and play buttons above to compare your pronunciation to the words below:

In Words

The /v/ sound plays an important role in the difference between the paired words below.

Listen to each pair, paying attention to how the first word differs from the second.
berry | very curb | curve wary | very fear | veer

Record yourself repeating the words, making sure to focus on the pronunciation of /v/. Then, compare it to the model recording. If you need help, check out the animated video to see exactly how to pronounce the sound.

Repeat this exercise several times a day. As with any skill, improving takes repetition and practice.

Here are several common words that include /v/. It’s a good idea to be comfortable with their pronunciation.

Listen to how each word is pronounced, focusing on /v/. Notice how /v/ can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a word.
violent live invest vote environment

Record yourself repeating the words, making sure to focus on the pronunciation of /v/. Compare your recording to the model recording.

Repeat this exercise several times a day.

See the “What’s next?” section below for more practice tips.

In Sentences

It’s important to go beyond single words when you practice sounds in English. Tongue twisters (difficult-to-pronounce sentences) are a great way to train your tongue to pronounce /v/ in a stream of speech.

Listen to how each tongue twister is pronounced. Be sure to note the sounds or words that might be challenging for you, and how many times you will pronounce /v/.

Violet is very vivacious. Violet is very vivacious.
The view over Dover is overly vivid.

Record yourself repeating each tongue twister. Try it slowly first, and then gradually increase to a fluid, natural-feeling pace.

Repeat this exercise several times a day. You can try creating your own tongue twisters, too!

Pronunciation practice is even more effective in a meaningful context. Here are several sentences with /v/ that you may find yourself saying frequently.

Listen to how each sentence is pronounced. Which word(s) include /v/?
Who did you vote for?
Can you do me a favor?

Record yourself repeating each sentence, focusing on the pronunciation of /v/.

Repeat this exercise several times a day.

See the “What’s next?” section below for more practice tips.

What’s next?

Schedule a One-to-One Session to learn more about this sound and how to master it. Receiving direct, personalized feedback on your pronunciation is an excellent way to pinpoint your strengths and areas for improvement.
Also, here are some great ways to make pronunciation practice more effective and relevant to you:

• Compile important vocabulary with /v/ from your field of study, résumé, and other interests. Practice these words by recording yourself pronouncing them and writing authentic sentences that use them in context.

• Think of scenarios you are likely to encounter in your daily life (e.g. talking to a fellow student or colleague, interviewing for a job) and write role plays that could include words with /v/. This will prepare you to use them spontaneously.

• Attend Conversation Hour with the goal of focusing on your pronunciation of /v/.

• Check out the helpful links and resources that TfCS recommends for extra practice, particularly Rachel’s English.