ACCENT VARIATION AND IDENTITY: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BRITISH AND AMERICAN ENGLISH PRONUNCIATION
Keywords:
British and American English pronunciations, accent, variation, identity, social group.Abstract
Accent variation is a fascinating aspect of language that reflects not only regional differences but also cultural identities. In the context of English, the differences between British and American pronunciations serve as a vivid example of how accents can shape perceptions of identity and belonging. This study delves into the distinctive characteristics of British and American English pronunciations, exploring how these variations influence social interactions and individual identities.
References
1. Wells, J. C. — Accents of English (2 vols.) — A foundational, detailed description of regional and social accents across the English-speaking world; invaluable for phonetic features and comparative descriptions.
2. Labov, W., Ash, S., & Boberg, C. — The Atlas of North American English (ANAE, 2006) — Major empirical survey of pronunciation patterns and sound change across the U.S. & Canada; essential for any study of American accent geography and phonological shifts.
3. Trudgill, P. — The Dialects of England (rev. ed., 2000) — Authoritative overview of regional English dialects in England with phonetic examples and social commentary; useful for British regional comparisons.
4. Britain, D. (ed.) — Language in the British Isles — Edited collection covering regional and sociophonetic variation across Britain (useful chapters on phonological variation and regional identity).
5. Lippi-Green, R. — English with an Accent: Language, Ideology and Discrimination (2nd ed.) — Critical work on accent ideology, attitudes, and discrimination — excellent for identity, stigma, and prestige discussions.
