We make the sound in "hoot" (/u/) with our really rounded. Sing "ooh, baby, baby" or pretend you are going to kiss someone.
Here is a picture of
someone making this sound.
See how round her lips are.
However, when we say "hut" we open our mouths wider and relax our lips. The sound in "hut" is in the center of your mouth. Try to put your tongue in the center of your mouth.
Now let's listen to some sounds!
"hoot" sounds:
"hut" sounds:
Now let's listen to some sounds!
"hoot" sounds: | "hut" sounds: |