An Introduction to English Phonetics (Edinburgh Textbooks on the English Language) - Softcover

Ogden, Richard

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0748625410 ISBN 13: 9780748625413

Publisher: Edinburgh University Press, 2010

Synopsis

This book introduces readers to the sounds of spoken English, covering phonetic representation and showing that different forms of representation supply different perspectives on data. The volume also provides an overview of the vocal tract and works through the consonant and vowel sounds of English.

Since English can assume a diverse range of forms, this book gives readers a general phonetic framework to apply to this variety, with illustrations taken from English-speakers across the world. Naturally-occurring English takes a central role, and while words are seen as important, they are not the only source of data. Sounds like clicks are included, because of their use in conversation.

About this title

About the Author

Richard Ogden is senior lecturer in linguistics at the University of York.

From the Back Cover

This book introduces undergraduates to the concepts, terminology and representations needed for an understanding of how English is pronounced around the world. Assuming no prior knowledge, the book guides readers through the vocal tract and explains how sounds of speech are made. Two main forms of representation are used: phonetic transcription and simple acoustic data. As far as possible, the book is based on naturally-occurring, conversational speech so that readers are familiar with the details of everyday talk (and not just the careful pronunciations represented in dictionaries). Examples are taken from around the English-speaking world, including North America, Australia, New Zealand and varieties of British English. Introductory chapters cover the basic phonetic framework, while later chapters discuss groups of sounds in more detail. The book takes an open-minded approach to what sounds of English might be significant for making meaning, and highlights the significance of word meaning, morphology, sociolinguistics and conversational interaction in phonetic analysis.Key Features*Introductory text assuming no prior knowledge of phonetics*Informed by up to date research on naturally occurring conversational English*Focuses on phonetics as a skill and encourages the reader to reflect on their own speech*Covers a range of forms of phonetic representation.

Edition details

• Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
• Publication date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0748625410
• ISBN 13: 9780748625413
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 160