Labials:
A labial is a sound made with the use of one or both of your lips, such as “b, p, m, f.”
Aspiration means exhalation, a puff of air, such as “p, t, k, q, ch, c.”
In many European languages, the difference between the sounds of “b/p,” “d/t,” and “g/k” is usually that the first in each pair is voiced (i.e., you can feel your larynx “buzzing” when you pronounce the letters), and the second is not voiced (i.e., there is no “buzzing”).
Tips for the “b” sound:
- Press your lips together firmly to block the airflow.
- Build up air pressure behind your lips by temporarily closing your vocal cords.
- Release the air by quickly separating your lips, creating a burst of sound.
Tips for the “p” sound:
- Press your lips together firmly to block the airflow.
- Hold your vocal cords open without vibrating them.
- Release the air by quickly separating your lips, creating a burst of sound.
- Put your hand in front of your mouth; you can feel a puff of air coming out when you say it.
Tips for the “m” sound:
- Press your lips together gently to create a partial closure.
- Allow the airflow to pass through your nasal cavity while your lips remain closed.
- Release the sound by slightly lowering your soft palate, allowing the air to flow through the nose.
Tips for the “f” sound:
- Place your top teeth gently on your lower lip, creating slight friction.
- Leave a small gap between your upper and lower teeth to allow airflow.
- Release the air by pushing it out gently between your teeth and lip, creating a continuous sound.