A method and an apparatus for detecting and extending controllably temporal gaps in a speech in dependence on power thereof for the purpose of aiding an auditory sense organ. A temporal gap detecting facility for detecting temporal gaps in the input speech signal and a temporal gap extension facility for extending the temporal gap by repetitive addition thereof are provided, wherein the number of repetition is selected to be proportional to power of the input speech signal at a time point immediately preceding to the temporal gap. Alternatively, the temporal gap extension facility adds repeatedly to the temporal gap a part thereof exclusive of start and end parts.