How Our Bodies Create Speech: A Breakdown of the Speech Mechanism

Published: 21 Mar 2025 Tagged: SpeakableTherapyspeech and language pathologySpeech and Language TherapySpeech Developmentspeech disorderSpeech DisordersSpeech Diversityspeech language pathologistspeech pathologistSpeech PathologySpeech Pathology AustraliaSpeech SkillsSpeech Technologyspeech therapySpeech Therapy OutdoorsSpeech-Language PathologySpeechAndLanguageDevelopmentSpeechDisordersSpeechPathologySpeechPathologyActivitiesSpeechTherapy

Step 1: Respiration – The Power Behind Speech

Speech begins with breath control. Our lungs act as an air supply, and we regulate airflow to produce sounds. The diaphragm contracts, pulling air into the lungs. As we speak, air is released in a controlled manner, providing the pressure needed for vocal cord vibration.

• The louder we speak, the more air pressure we use.
• A strong breath support system improves vocal projection and clarity.

Step 2: Phonation – Producing Sound with the Vocal Cords

Once air leaves the lungs, it moves through the larynx (voice box), where phonation occurs. Inside the larynx, the vocal cords vibrate to generate sound.

• If the cords vibrate quickly, we produce a higher pitch.
• If they vibrate slowly, the sound is deeper.

Quick Fact: Whispering does not involve vocal cord vibration—only airflow!

Step 3: Resonance – Shaping the Sound

Not all sounds come out the same. The throat, mouth, and nose modify the vibrations created in the larynx, giving us unique voice qualities.

• Nasal resonance: Sounds like "M," "N," and "NG" rely on air passing through the nose.
• Oral resonance: Most sounds resonate in the mouth.
• Imbalanced resonance: Can cause nasal, muffled, or weak-sounding speech.

Step 4: Articulation – Forming Words

Once the sound is shaped, articulators—our tongue, lips, teeth, and soft palate—come into play. They refine the sound into recognizable speech.

• The tongue directs airflow to create different sounds.
• The lips help produce letters like "B" and "P."
• The teeth assist in sounds like "TH" and "F."

Putting It All Together: A Real-Life Example

When you say "hello," here’s what happens in a split second:

1. You take a breath (Respiration).
2. Your vocal cords vibrate (Phonation).
3. The sound passes through your mouth and nose (Resonance).
4. Your tongue, lips, and teeth shape the word (Articulation).

Why Understanding Speech Matters

Many speech disorders arise from issues in one or more of these steps. If a person struggles with breath control, vocal cord vibration, or articulation, they may need speech therapy.

Need Expert Advice?

Do you or your child experience difficulty with speech? Early intervention can make a difference! Contact us today and learn how speech therapy can enhance communication skills.

Join the Conversation!

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