What can I do so others can better understand what I say?
Is your goal to reduce or modify your accent so others can better understand you? Here are a few tips that are helpful for most non-native English Language speakers. These will certainly move you in the direction of speaking more clearly and being better understood. Of course, to get the maximum improvement you should work with a professional coach who will personally help you fully attain your goal.
- Listen to news anchors on TV or radio.
Try to repeat what they are saying, imitating the intonation and rhythm of their speech. Most people on TV or radio speak with a neutral, English accent, regardless of where they are located. Think about this: an anchor in a southeastern city, such as Atlanta, uses a neutral, Midwestern accent, not a heavy southern drawl, even if they are from one of the Southeastern states. - Open your mouth more when you speak.
Observe the mouth movements of native speakers and try to imitate them. Standard American English consonants and vowels have a variety of mouth positions and movements. And the sounds engage all parts of the mouth. It’s common for non-native English speakers to use smaller movements and often times, less volume. - Have you heard this before? “Please slow down, I can’t understand you.”
Different languages use different intonation and rhythm patterns. Working with an accent modification instructor at AccentRedux Pro will help you to use the correct intonation and rhythm of Standard American English. When you speak too quickly with the wrong intonation and rhythm, others will have a hard time understanding you. Don’t worry about your listener getting impatient with your slow speech – it is more important that what you say is understood! - Pronounce the ending of each word.
Pay special attention to last letters as they are frequently dropped off by non-native English speakers. Last sounds can change the meanings of words and are very important!!! - Record your own voice and listen to yourself.
Many speakers, whether they are native English speakers or speak English as a second language, are uncomfortable with listening to themselves. However, it’s very important to learn to listen to yourself in order to identify pronunciation mistakes. It will help you become conscious of the mistakes that you are making and help you to achieve your goal of using clearer speech. - Make a list of frequently used words that are difficult for you to pronounce
- Contact AccentRedux Pro to get personalized help.