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If you’ve ever said berry instead of very and noticed a confused look, you’ve met the B and V problem. These two English sounds are tiny but powerful. Swap them and you can change a word completely, turning a boat into a vote or a ban into a van.
The good news is they’re easy to fix once you know what your lips and teeth should be doing. In this guide, you’ll see the difference clearly, hear it in real words, and practise with simple examples so you can pronounce B and V with confidence.
What Is the Difference Between B and V Sounds in English?
B and V might look like tiny letters, but in your mouth, they’re doing very different things. Think of B as a little “lip hug”: both lips come together, air stops, then bursts out with a voiced sound. It’s quick, soft, and satisfying – like a little pop.
V, on the other hand, is more of a “lip-teeth handshake.” Your top teeth rest lightly on your bottom lip, air flows continuously, and your voice hums along. It’s smooth, buzzing, and a bit ticklish if you notice it for the first time.
No wonder learners mix them up! They sound similar, but your lips and teeth are throwing totally different parties. Once you feel the difference, your B’s and V’s will stop playing tricks on you.
b and v correct pronunciaion
b and v tongue twisters
b and v pronunciation practice exercise
