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Your English pronunciation should convey a message that is easy to understand. If you are addressing native listeners, and notice looks of confusion on their faces, you may need to improve certain aspects of your spoken English. But which aspects of your speech need work?
The Features most likely to confuse native listeners are segmental errors. Call 781.385.0231 for information.
What are Segmental Errors?
Segmental refers several segments of speech sounds applied to a word, syllable or letter. When these sounds are pronounced in an unexpected manner, they are referred to as segmental errors.
If the listener can decipher that meaning, communication is complete. When pronunciation prevents listeners from understanding the message, communication fails.
Errors in Vowel and Consonant Sounds Confuse Listeners the Most
Errors in the use of vowels and vowel duration can confuse listeners. The length of a vowel in a single syllable word is different from the length of a vowel in an unstressed four-syllable word.
wrong passionate [a] in unstressed syllable pronounced with long [a]
correct passionate [a] in unstressed syllable pronounced with short a or possible short [e]
Does your speech contain segmental errors? Take a free accent screening and find out today.