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Accents and Dialects

Questions and answers related to different accents and dialects of the English language.

1,457 Questions

Is airplane an American or an English word?

Airplane is the usual American spelling, aeroplane is often used in England, but they are really forms of the same word.

Why were 2-3 centuries a turning point of the history of the Germanic tribes and their dialect?

The 2-3 centuries marked a turning point for Germanic tribes due to increased contact with Rome through trade and wars, leading to cultural exchange and adoption of Latin elements. This period also saw the emergence of powerful tribal confederations and the Merovingian and Carolingian dynasties, which helped shape the political landscape of the region. The development of a common language from these diverse dialects laid the foundation for what would later become the German language.

What is pike county dialect?

Pike County dialect refers to the distinctive way of speaking found in Pike County, Kentucky. This dialect features distinct pronunciations, vocabulary, and grammatical patterns that set it apart from other English dialects. Characteristics may include unique slang terms, pronunciation of vowels, and word order preferences.

What was the American accent like around 1850?

Around 1850, the American accent was significantly influenced by regional dialects and the diverse backgrounds of settlers, including British, Irish, German, and Native American languages. The accent was characterized by a more pronounced rhoticity, meaning that the "r" sound was often fully articulated, particularly in New England and the South. Additionally, the American accent of this period had not yet fully developed the distinct features that would later emerge, leading to a variety of accents that reflected local speech patterns and social influences. Overall, it was a transitional period in American English, with evolving pronunciation and vocabulary.

Why do singers loose their accents when singing?

Many singers modify their pronunciation while singing in order to have their words be better understood. Also, some vowel sounds blend in the music better when they are not pronounced with a strong accent.

What is the opposite of an uneducated accent?

The opposite of an uneducated accent is an educated accent. An educated accent typically reflects a higher level of education, proper grammar, and correct pronunciation. It is associated with formal education and is often considered more refined or prestigious.

Why do so many commercials have British or Australian spokesmen?

They sound smart and funny at the same time.

This is only true in America -- commercials in different countries don't consider British or Australian accents to be exotic and interesting the way Americans do.

What is the word tire in American English?

The noun "tire" already is American English; the British spelling is "tyre".

What is the American English word for the British English word jam?

The British word "jam" can mean a couple of things. If you mean the food, a sweet paste of fruit, Americans also use the same word to mean that food. If you mean "jam" as in "stuck together," Americans use that word in the same context, but also use the word "cram."

What is the best translation into standard English of this piece dialect from hurstons Sweat?

Sykes, why did you throw that whip on me like that?

Look here, Sykes, you've gone too far.

Is it English English or British English?

Generally we refer to the English spoken in the British Isles as "British English," but the distinction could be made between various forms of it: Irish English, Scottish English and English English.

What is the difference between accent dialect and idiolect?

Accent is the way that words are pronounced when spoken by individuals in a region or in a country. You might be able to tell what region or what country a person is from based on accent. Standard speakers of Australian, US and British English would be distinguishable based on accent, although some may find Australian and British harder to distinguish depending on what is actually said.

Dialect is the variety of a language spoken in a region of a country, or in a country. It includes particular or unique regional vocabulary, grammar, usage, syntax and accent.

Idiolect is the variety of a language that is used by a given individual person and it can include one or more of the same variables that pertain to dialect.

Should local dialect been spoken in school?

It depends on the context. In some cases, allowing the use of local dialect in schools can help students feel more connected to their culture and improve their engagement in learning. However, it's also important for students to develop proficiency in the standard language of instruction to ensure effective communication and access to broader educational and professional opportunities.

Why does twain use dialect when wheeler tells the story?

Twain uses dialect in Wheeler's storytelling to give the character authenticity and to provide a sense of regional flavor. The use of dialect also helps to convey the character's personality and background, adding depth to the narration.

What is the relationship between dialect and language?

A dialect is a specific form of a language that is spoken in a particular region or by a specific group of people. A language can have multiple dialects that differ in terms of vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Dialects are typically mutually intelligible with the standard form of the language, but may have distinct features that set them apart.

What are indicators of the common use of dialect?

Indicators of the common use of dialect include distinctive pronunciation, vocabulary, or grammar patterns that differ from Standard English. These differences may reflect regional, cultural, or social influences and can help identify the speakers' background or community. Dialect can also be characterized by unique expressions or idiomatic phrases specific to a particular group.

Does northumberland have an accent?

Yes, Northumberland does have its own accent, which is a distinct variation of the Geordie accent found in the northeast of England. The accent in Northumberland can vary depending on the specific area within the county.

What are the different Philippine dialect translations for merry Christmas?

In the Philippines, "Merry Christmas" can be translated to different dialects as follows:

  1. Tagalog (Filipino): "Maligayang Pasko"
  2. Cebuano: "Maayong Pasko"
  3. Ilocano: "Naimbag a Paskua"
  4. Hiligaynon: "Malipayon nga Paskwa"

How are you in Pangasinan dialect?

In the Pangasinan dialect, "How are you?" is translated as "Kasapulan ka?"