You may have heard someone say you have the “H-factor” and wondered what it means. Simply put, the H-factor refers to a speech challenge where the letter “h” is either:
- Added where it doesn’t belong (affectation), or
- Removed where it should be pronounced (de-affectation).
Let’s break it down further.
What Does the H-Factor Look Like?
1.
It is simply adding “h” where it does not exist:
This happens when you say words like:
“hant” instead of ant,
“heat” instead of eat,
“hink” instead of ink.
This unnecessary addition changes the meaning and flow of your speech.
2.
Removing “h” where it’s required. This occurs when you say:
“ospital” instead of hospital,
“ouse” instead of house,
“ome” instead of home.
Without the “h,” these words sound incorrect and confusing.
No matter how eloquent or well-spoken you are, the H-factor can diminish your credibility.
- It can distract your audience.
- Create a poor impression, especially in professional settings.
- Make communication less effective.
For people who are sensitive to pronunciation, the H-factor can be irritating or even a dealbreaker in communication.
The H-factor can be more obvious in some individuals than in others. While it might dominate the speech of some, it may appear occasionally in others. Either way, it is a speech issue you can and should address.
Steps to Overcome the H-Factor
1.
Be aware of the problem. The H-factor is a speech challenge that many people face yet unaware. Ask someone you trust if you have the H-factor. You can overcome it if you are willing.
2.
Compile words starting with vowel sounds. Create a list of words that begin with vowel sounds (diphthongs) and vowel letters: a, e, i, o, u. Examples include:
- apple, away
- egg, enter
- ink, inside
- open, orange
- umbrella, under
3.
Control your breath while pronouncing vowel sounds. Do not exhale forcefully. Hold your breath slightly as you articulate the first sound. This will help you avoid the unnecessary addition of the “h” sound, making your words sound natural and accurate.
4.
Reduce your speaking volume slightly when starting words with vowel sounds. This helps you focus on articulating them correctly without the intrusion of “h” sounds.
5.
Similarly, compile a list of words that begin with the “h” sound and practice pronouncing them correctly. Unlike vowel words, ensure you exhale slightly when producing the /h/ sound.
6.
Use sentences that combine vowel and “h” sounds to build your proficiency.
Examples:
“Can her hair warm her an A?”
“Esther wants to eat egg and apple.”
“Harry helped her at the hospital.”
7.
Use your phone to record your speech. Play it back to check for mistakes and correct them.
8.
Work with a coach who specializes in diction and pronunciation to engage in guided practice helping you refine your speech.
Do not forget to be consistent.
Practice these sentences daily to reinforce the correct pronunciation habits.