It’s important to learn proper pronunciation early in your second language training. Not doing so can establish wrong pronunciations that you’ll find extremely difficult to shake off down the line.
Different experts suggest a varying range of approaches to learning proper pronunciation. These three, however, are the core things every language learner should start doing from the moment they begin their lessons.
- Learn the alphabet and component sounds. Getting your head around the target language’s alphabet and component sounds will help you make sense of why words are pronounced the way they are. Chances are, you’ll be able to replicate pronunciations better after hearing them, too.
- Pronounce new words slowly. If you’re having trouble with a word, start by mouthing it in a deliberate and slow pace, sounding out each syllable. While this won’t make you sound like a native speaker, it allows you to learn word pronunciation correctly — you can adjust the speed later once you gain a good grasp of the word.
- Parrot native speakers. Pick a subject who can speak the language and copy that person. It doesn’t have to be your teacher — a French actor in a French movie can be just as useful to model for improving your pronunciation.
Related posts:
