Phonetics And Phonology Questions
Vowel reduction in second language phonological rules refers to the modification or simplification of vowel sounds when they are produced by non-native speakers. This process occurs due to the influence of the native language phonological system on the production of vowels in the second language.
When learning a second language, speakers tend to transfer the vowel system of their native language to the new language. This can result in the reduction of vowel sounds, where they become less distinct or undergo changes in quality. Vowel reduction typically occurs in unstressed syllables, as these syllables receive less emphasis and are often pronounced more quickly.
The process of vowel reduction involves several phonetic changes. One common change is the centralization of vowels, where they become more centralized in the mouth and move towards a more neutral position. For example, a high front vowel like /i/ may be reduced to a more central vowel like /ɪ/ or even /ə/ in unstressed syllables.
Another change is the shortening of vowel duration. Unstressed vowels are often pronounced with a shorter duration compared to stressed vowels. This reduction in duration can lead to the loss of vowel quality distinctions, making the vowels sound more similar to each other.
Additionally, vowel reduction can involve changes in vowel quality. Non-native speakers may substitute the target language's vowel sounds with similar sounds from their native language. This can result in the production of non-standard vowel sounds or the merging of distinct vowel phonemes.
Overall, vowel reduction in second language phonological rules is a process where non-native speakers modify or simplify vowel sounds, often in unstressed syllables, due to the influence of their native language's phonological system.