Accent reduction
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Accent reduction, also known as accent modification or accent neutralization, is a systematic approach for learning or adopting a new speech
Training
Accent modification is offered by various speech-language pathologists, acting coaches, and linguists. Speech-language pathologists offer accent modification services but do not "treat" accents or dialects, because neither are considered communication disorders. The goal of accent training is not to suppress the accent entirely, nor is it to sever the connection between the speaker and their cultural-linguistic background. Rather, the impetus behind accent modification is to improve the intelligibility of speech to non-familiar listeners. [1]
Areas of focus may include teaching students clear
Training timelines can vary from a few days to several months depending upon the chosen model of instruction.
Although accents can be minimized through training, eliminating an accent is difficult and can take years.
By language
In English
Accent improvement focuses on teaching students how to pronounce difficult sounds such as /θ/, /ð/, /ɹ/, /l/, and /w/; intonation, stress, and rhythm. Spanish and Portuguese speakers might add an /h/ before the vowel /ɪ/, as in "his" for "is". Therefore, vowel sounds are also covered in accent reduction training. Practicing of the vowel /ɪ/ most commonly spelled "i" is done by reciting a few of the following differences: his versus is, hit versus it, hill versus ill. By not letting the back of their tongue touch the palate, native speakers of Asian languages (Chinese, etc.) can avoid adding a /j/ before the /ɪ/ for example in speaking "yin" instead of "in".[2]
Although the accents can be reduced through training, some
The actors Portia de Rossi, Anthony LaPaglia, Katherine Langford, and Charlize Theron are examples of notable people who received such training to lose their native accents and develop American accents, even in everyday speech.[citation needed]
With regard to English accent training, the two most distinct choices of accent reduction are the British or American pathways.[citation needed]
See also
- Dialect levelling
- Anglophone pronunciation of foreign languages
- Koiné language
- Non-native pronunciations of English
References
- ^ "Accent Modification".
- ISBN 1-58631-050-X.
- ^ Gorman, Anna (October 23, 2007). "Surge in accent reduction classes speaks volumes Immigrants and others wanting to sound more American flock to the courses. But some linguists are skeptical.)". Los Angeles Times. Vol. Part B, no. Home Edition. p. 1.