How to Fix Microsoft Word Read Aloud Keeps Stopping
Question details
Users need to resolve an issue where the Read Aloud feature in Microsoft Word unexpectedly stops reading during document playback.
- Product
- Microsoft Word (Microsoft 365)
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Using the Read Aloud accessibility feature to listen to a document being read back.
- Observed behavior
- Read Aloud randomly stops after a few sentences, particularly when it encounters unfamiliar terms, specific names, or when the text reaches the bottom of the visible screen.
Before attempting to fix the Read Aloud feature, ensure your Windows audio system is functioning correctly and save any unsaved work in your current document.
Troubleshoot Add-ins Using Safe Mode
Running Word in Safe Mode helps determine if third-party add-ins are causing the Read Aloud feature to crash or stall.
Conflicting third-party add-ins can disrupt Word's built-in text-to-speech engine. By launching Word in Safe Mode, you temporarily disable these extensions, allowing you to isolate the root cause of the reading interruptions.
Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.
Type 'winword /safe' into the text box and press Enter to launch Microsoft Word in Safe Mode.
Open your document and activate the Read Aloud feature. If it works without stopping, an add-in is likely the culprit.
Go to File > Options > Add-ins. Manage your COM Add-ins and uncheck them one by one to identify and disable the conflicting extension permanently.
Update Windows Speech Voices and Word Settings
Missing speech packs or a stalling voice engine can cause the feature to stop on unfamiliar words or names.
Run the Office Repair Tool
If Read Aloud stops specifically when scrolling, repairing the Office installation can fix corrupted files and underlying rendering bugs.
Experience Uninterrupted Document Review with WPS Office
If Microsoft Word's Read Aloud bug persists despite your troubleshooting efforts, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, free Office suite that easily opens your Word documents while offering stable, lightweight performance.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free office suite on your computer.
- 2. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word document directly without losing formatting.
- 3. Review Smoothly: Explore the built-in view tools for a smooth, uninterrupted document reading and review experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Word Read Aloud stop at certain names or words?
Word's text-to-speech dictionary may struggle to recognize specific names, acronyms, or foreign terms, causing the engine to stall. Switching to a different voice profile or ensuring your Windows speech packs are fully updated can sometimes help bypass this.
Does automatic scrolling affect Word's Read Aloud feature?
Yes, many users report that Read Aloud randomly stops when the text reaches the bottom of the visible screen and attempts to scroll down. This is generally considered a known rendering bug in certain builds of Microsoft Word.
Can I add more voices to Microsoft Word Read Aloud?
Yes, you can expand your voice options. Install additional language and speech packages through your Windows Settings under Time & Language > Speech. Once installed, restart Word, and the new voices will appear in the Read Aloud settings menu.
