How to Not Talk in a Southern Accent
The southern accent often appears in stereotypes in American media, portrayed as both the voice of a charming southern gentleman or the language of unintelligent people. Speakers who are uncomfortable with a southern accent can change it over time to make communication with those who speak with a different accent more tolerable. It can also be a career advantage for those in the business world. Consider your environment, however; if dealing primarily with others who possess a southern accent, your own southern accent may actually be of benefit to you.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Consider the accent you hope to replicate. If you wish to blend in with those in your living area, spend time speaking with your neighbors, family members or friends as much as possible. Take note of how these people say different words. Watching television shows or movies featuring your desired accent can also be of benefit as you learn a new accent.
-
2
Ask a friend or family member for assistance as you start to learn a new accent. Repeat a friend's sentence in an effort to replicate his accent. Record yourself during these exercises. A human hears herself differently than those around her hear her, and a recording can help you better understand your accent and what can be changed.
-
-
3
Invest in tapes with a speaker who possesses your desired accent. Listen to these tapes at home, while driving or whenever you have spare time. Try to speak along with the speaker while listening to the tapes. Repeat these exercises daily to encourage the adoption of a new accent.
-
4
Remain aware and consistent whenever learning a new accent. Before speaking, consider how you will sound to those around you. Remain conscious of the accent you use when speaking. While you may make mistakes when adopting a new accent, take note of those mistakes and work on them.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
When learning a new accent, consistency is important. Try to work on your accent daily and strive to speak with the new accent every time you talk. Eventually, the new accent will become habit.
Changing an accent can take several months of work. A professional speech tutor can also help someone with a southern accent make the transition into a new accent.
