Skip to content
pConsonants
Audio playback is unavailable on this browser. Install a voice for the target language or try a different device.
/p/

· ·

Voiceless bilabial plosive. Lips together, release a puff of air.

Example words

pen 
happy 
spin 
tip 

How to make the sound

Close both lips, hold the air briefly, then release it in a small puff without vibrating your throat.

What to feel and listen for

Hold a hand in front of your mouth: you should feel a short burst of air. Your throat stays quiet.

Common mistake: Do not add voice before the release; that changes /p/ toward /b/.

See how it differs

Articulation profile

PlosiveFricativeAffricateNasalApproximantLateralBilabialpb··m··Labiodental·fv····Dental·θð····Alveolartdsz·n·lPost-alveolar·ʃʒtʃdʒ·r·Palatal····j·Velarkɡ··ŋw·Glottal·h····