Exercises

Rhoticity

Stress

Vowel length

Tricky vowels (1)

Tricky vowels (2)

Tricky consonants

Consonant clusters

Consonant features

Misleading spelling

Suprasegmental features

Testing yourself

English has become the major language for international communication. It is estimated that the ratio between native and non-native speakers is currently 1:5 (David Chrystal p.c.) and that 80% of communication in English takes place between non-native speakers (Osimk 2011). This situation has led to much diversity in English. In fact, some would go as far to suggest that it is no longer appropriate to speak of English in the singular but rather of English in the plural (Kachru 1985): Englishes. 

There are a number of well-known cases where different pronunciations of English have caused communication breakdowns or have even led to dangerous situations or near-conflicts.  Research has also shown that people are frequently judged on the basis of their accent. This is a reality but unfortunate because our accents are very much part of our identity.

 In this context it is important to know what pronunciation features are important for successful communication in English, both in our professional careers and in respect of our personal lives.

This website contains drills and analytical exercises that help you develop an accent that is intelligible (understandable) and credible whilst you may retain those accent features that you feel are part of your identity. They will also help you understand other people's accents.  After all, variation in English is a fact of life that should be appreciated, cherished and celebrated!