This video on the pronunciation of “the” is the best. The number one most common word in American
English has two different pronunciations. Either the schwa, [ðə], when the next word begins with a
consonant, the best, [ðə]. Or the [i] vowel when the next word begins with a vowel or diphthong,
the absolute best, [ði]. Notice these words should be said really quickly. It's not [ðʌ], the best,
or [ði], the absolute best. But it's [ði], [ði], the absolute best. And here's a tip for that TH,
you don't need to bring your tongue tip all the way through since the word should
be so fast. Just press it against the backs of the teeth, the best.