Tongue twisters may seem to be just for fun, yet tongue twisters can also be used to treat hiccups; aid in overcoming speech defects such as lisps and stuttering; test the fit of dentures; assist in screening applicants for positions as announcers and in broadcasting; and reduce violence between people (as part of an overall effort at humor). It’s all true.

What sounds or combinations of sounds give you the greatest difficulty when you try to pronounce them? Remember, it’s best to work correct your own speech defects, but don’t try to fix other people’s problems unless they ask you for help, and never ever tease or point out someone else’s errors in speech, even if you are trying to help him or her, without first considering the other person’s feelings.

Practical Application: Tongue twisters can help you improve your speaking ability. Say aloud the tongue twisters you see here, in front of a friend or into a sound recorder. Ask you friend (with eyes closed if it helps) to listen for any sounds you have difficulty with, or listen to yourself as you play back the recorder. Next, practice through repetition to perfect your pronunciation. Don’t worry if your voice sounds a little funny when you play it back on the recorder; everyone’s does, at least to them. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Skill to do comes of doing.”

Anyone can make a tongue twister, no special skills required, and so with great anticipation, we await the appearance of your tongue twisters below.

A Laughter Club . . . The Pursuit Of Happiness. :-) :-) :-)