the pronunciation of the word "the"

I know that the word "the" is being pronounced differently based on the initial sounds of words. I know that some words take on different articles because 1) the sound "h" is not pronounced and 2) the letter "u" is being pronounced like "you."

Is it safe to say that we can pronounce the word "the" in front of any words with initial vowel sounds besides the ones mentioned above with the "Di" sound and not with the "Thu" of the "Thus" sound"?  

Are all these being pronounced with the "Di" sound?

1) the umbrella      2)  the ink       3)  the hour     4)  the apple

5) the end    6) the above-mentioned document

i would like to point out that the th is always pronounced as TH, it's about placing ur tougue between your teeth ( like biting ur tongue without really biting it, lol), and blowing air out .

if u say THe is Pronounced like De or DI, then i think ur probablly talking about the African American pronounication or othewise the mispronunication that ESL speakers always commit.

however, it's interesting to note that in some words, the rule doesnt apply,esp name. eg. Anthony. it can be anthony or antony

Anonymous

CalifJim is incorrect http://www.revver.com/video/154554/language-man-explains-the-pronunciation-of-the/

Hi,

I've just watched the video you posted and couldn't find anything that contradicts what CJ wrote in his post.
Could you please say what was wrong, in your opinion?

Thanks.

The word 'the' has the voiced /th/ sound. Before consonants the vowel has a schwa sound so 'the' sounds like  thə, Before vowel sounds the vowel has an /iy/ sound  like thē.