*Mariano Ignacio, Director of Studies — Centro Universitario de Idiomas (CUI)
First impressions are important, and they are often shaped by our presence and the way we speak: our intonation, the way we finish our words, and our diction. This holds true when learning a new language like English. While grammar and vocabulary are clearly important, pronunciation is the most decisive factor in how others perceive us. And that’s where we make our impression!
Accents are our identity
That clear communication is defined by a British accent is a common misconception. And we can all think of clear examples that defy this notion, such as when we hear Adele being interviewed on BBC Radio 1. Accents are part of our identity, as Adele’s North London accent so clearly shows. Accents reflect our origins and experiences. It is often said that to work as an airline cabin crew member, one must have an English accent “similar to that of a native speaker.” However, this only serves to erase the rich tapestry of cultures that airlines promote and provide. Imagine a world where all cabin crew members sounded the same! This would lead to a loss of cultural identity for that company. After all, the first experience with a new culture is through its language.
The power of clarity
Beyond one’s identity, clear pronunciation is essential to avoid misunderstandings. English has unique sounds that, for instance, are not found in Rioplatense Spanish. Understanding and mastering these sounds improves comprehension for both the speaker and the listener. Imagine the confusion if someone said “sink” instead of “think”! Phonetic differences can be a significant barrier for beginners. The “th” /θ/ sound, for example, is not used in Rioplatense Spanish, though it is in much of Spain. Local speakers often resort to the closest sound: “s”/s/.
Beyond “speaking like a native”
There’s still a lingering belief that a British accent “similar to that of a native,” often known as RP (Received Pronunciation) or BBC Pronunciation, or Standard Southern British, is preferable to others. However, this distinct accent, known for its clarity, is only spoken by 3% of Britons. Nowadays, intelligibility is highly valued, and even the prestigious Cambridge exams prioritise it over any specific regional accent. Moreover, the idea that British English is inherently easier than American English has become a myth, as both dialects have their complexities. American English has its own unique vowel sounds that can be challenging for those used to British English. Someone accustomed to watching British TV series and films might find it difficult to have a business meeting with someone from San Francisco, Chicago, or Seattle.
Focus on clarity, not imitation
The key to knowing if our pronunciation is clear is whether we are understood. We must embrace our accent, just as we naturally accept our voice. We should embrace our accent while we continuously work on becoming clearer. Only through practice and dedication can we develop our unique voice in English that allows us to communicate effectively and confidently. After all, we learn a language to express ourselves in another language, and what better way to do it than with our own voice and accent? Does this mean ignoring the pronunciation of the new language? Of course not, but we should be who we are while speaking the language of others. We should not pretend to be someone we are not.