Your G Might Be Going Soft When It Shouldn't

In Spanish, sounds like b, d, and g get soft and breathy between vowels — say 'abogado' out loud and notice how the middle consonants almost melt. Linguists call this lenition, and it's completely normal in Spanish. The trouble is, this habit can quietly follow you into English, where those same letters usually stay firm and crisp, especially at the start of a word or stressed syllable. Words like 'sugar,' 'again,' and 'body' can end up sounding blurred instead of clear if the consonant softens too much. Try this: pick one word, like 'body,' and say it with a firm, closed 'b' and a solid 'd' — really let your lips and tongue fully close before releasing. Exaggerate it on purpose for two minutes. It might feel too strong at first, but to American ears, it'll sound just right. Keep practicing — your consonants are getting stronger every day.