Pronunciation: SH vs CH
For many English learners, the SH (/ʃ/) and CH (/ʧ/) sounds are very similar.
Shhh! vs. Choo-Choo!
1. The "SH" Sound (/ʃ/)
Think of this as "The Quiet Sound."
- How to make it: Round your lips slightly and blow air out continuously.
- The trick: It sounds like you are telling someone to be quiet in a library: "Shhhhhh!"
- Feel it: If you put your hand in front of your mouth, you should feel a smooth, long stream of air.
- Words to practice: Shop, Shoe, Shore, Share.
2. The "CH" Sound (/ʧ/)
Think of this as "The Sneeze Sound" or a Train.
- How to make it: Start with your tongue touching the roof of your mouth (stopping the air), and then quickly release it.
- The trick: It sounds like a sneeze ("Ah-choo!") or an old train ("Choo-choo!"). It is short and explosive!
- Feel it: The air should "pop" out against your hand. It is not smooth; it is sudden.
- Words to practice: Chop, Chew, Chore, Chair.
The Big Difference
The most important thing to remember is Time:
- SH (/ʃ/) is LONG. You can hold the sound forever: Shhhhhhhhh...
- CH (/ʧ/) is SHORT. You cannot hold it. It happens once and stops!
