Let's begin with the differences in meaning first.
Chop is to cut something into smaller pieces. Chopping is the act of a person who chops.
Shop is most commonly known as either a noun (a store) or a verb (go to a store to buy things).Shopping is the act of a person who shops.
Can you hear the difference between the two sounds?
SH(ʃ):
- Think of saying, "Shhh! Please be quiet!!"
- We don't use the vocal chords (touch your throat, there should be no vibration.
- Soft sound
- Mouth is more closed
- Long sound
CH (tʃ)
- Think of when you sneeze, "Achooo!!" or the sound of a train, "Choo Choo!"
- We use the vocal chords touch your throat, you should be able to feel some vibration)
- Hard sound
- Mouth is open a little
- Short sound