Importance of English Pronunciation

Did I make myself perfectly clear?

Good communication in English depends of proper pronunciation. Regional dialects can differ but clear pronunciation is paramount to making your message understood. Taking the time to learn phonics can assist you in acquiring a near native accent if English is not your first language. By listening and practicing the sounds of English words you can gain mastery over proper pronunciation.

Significance

Proper pronunciation means reproducing the sound of the word through speech in such a way that any fluent speaker of the language would effortlessly know and understand the message. Improper pronunciation causes a breakdown in communication and requires more effort to understand. The meaning between the words like effect and affect are easily confused if the pronunciation is not clear.

Dialects

There are different dialects that result in different pronunciation. English speakers with a Southern dialect have the habit of elongating vowels. New York state residents and Mid-Western U.S. residents have a nasal pronunciation to many words. African American Vernacular English can cut words short in phrases like, "fo' sho." Speakers of other languages can confuse their listeners when they do not distinguish between vowel sounds in words such as "this," pronouncing it the same as the word "these."

Effects

Poor pronunciation can cause a negative first impression. People who cannot pronounce English properly are often thought of as less literate or intelligent. This can also be a factor in considering a person for a promotion or a raise. Discrimination against people with accents exists in all levels of employment. Sometimes distinct accents are advantageous. A French restaurant may prefer to hire waiters or waitresses who speak English with a French accent. Certain movie roles may require a person whose pronunciation is not standard American English.

Features

Good pronunciation entails enunciating the words correctly. A phonics class can teach you the proper point of articulation to correctly pronounce words. Volume and pitch are other factors that contribute to pronunciation. Your message must also be loud enough to be heard, and the tone of a message contributes to the meaning as well.

Considerations

Be aware that the majority of skills for good pronunciation are best acquired through use rather than learned in a classroom. By hearing the language spoken clearly, you are going to acquire it faster. Children are often less self-conscious and are willing to take risks. That is why they are often able to attain a native accent while adults struggle to do so.

References

• Sounds of English: English Pronunciation
• English Club: Word Stress Rules
• Learning Unlimited Australia: Some Rules of English Pronunciation
• Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language: Second Language Acquisition Theory and Pedagogy