Different languages use different sounds—a fact that surprises no one who’s ever set out to learn a new one. Depending on where we’re from, our first language might lack certain consonant clusters (like “st” or “sp” for Spanish speakers) or nasal sounds at the beginning of words (like “ng” for English speakers). Languages vary widely in their vowel systems, too, with some having more or fewer sounds than what we’re used to.

As we confront these sound differences, it becomes clear that language is a physical activity. Like picking up a new sport, learning to produce unfamiliar sounds means learning the rules and training our muscles to follow them. Our mouths have to move in new ways to shape the sounds of a new language. If you’ve ever felt like you’re speaking with a mouth full of cotton—or heard someone else who sounds that way—you’ve witnessed this challenge firsthand.

The good news is that because speech is so physical, it can be improved through practice. Just like developing a good swing or posture, building muscle memory for speech takes repetition and attention to form. Over time, what once felt awkward will become automatic. Working with someone who understands the mechanics of sound production can help you build those patterns faster, reducing accent and improving clarity for native listeners. It might feel strange to practice out loud on your own, but it’s one of the best ways to train your mouth. Repetition matters—find words with the sounds you’re targeting and say them clearly, often.

This is a shared challenge for all language learners. Unless your native and target languages come from closely related regions, you’re likely to face unfamiliar sounds. That means everyone learning a new language is doing the hard work of hearing and producing sounds their body hasn’t made before. Whether you’re learning to pronounce the English “v,” the Chinese “r,” or any other tricky sound, the key is to be patient—with yourself and with others.