Common mistakes with Numbers

• Mistake #1: "Không" (0)

One common mistake is with the number "Không" (zero). When trying to pronounce the "ng" sound at the end of "không," many students tend to open their mouths too much. However, you need to close your lips slightly when saying "không."

As I’ve mentioned in a previous lesson, Vietnamese doesn’t emphasize ending sounds like in some other languages. So, don’t worry too much about pronouncing the "ng" at the end. Even if you do make the sound, we likely won’t hear it clearly! 😅😅😅

• Mistake #2: Sáu, Tám, and Chín

Although the rising tone is one of the easier tones for my students to pronounce, many of them forget to apply it when saying the numbers Sáu (six), Tám (eight), and Chín (nine).

Remember, these numbers require a rising tone! So when you say Sáu, Tám, or Chín, make sure your pitch goes up at the end. Think of it as though you’re asking a question. Practice going up with Sáu, Tám, and Chín.