About accents and accent training

What is an accent?

Everyone has an accent. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association defines an accent as “the unique way that speech is pronounced by a group of people speaking the same language”.  Individuals who speak English as their first language may be considered to have a “regional accent” (for example, someone from Canada will sound different from someone from England or Australia). A “foreign accent” is commonly heard in individuals who speak one or more other languages and have learned English later in life. The varieties of English accents throughout the world are a powerful reflection of native languages and cultures, and are often a source of pride.

How do accents affect communication?

Whenever two individuals do not share the same accent, there is a possibility of a communication breakdown (misunderstanding). Many individuals who speak English as a foreign language may not encounter difficulties being fully understood within an English-speaking community, while others may experience frequent difficulty due to the extent of their accent. These communication challenges may have a negative impact on educational performance, career advancement and/or successful social communication, and might also affect an individual’s self-esteem.

Who might benefit from accent training?

• Individuals who have a good command of the English language but who, because of their accent, have found their speech is not always fully understood by people in the community in which they live and work or study.
• Individuals who feel self-conscious about their accent and therefore decide that they would like to modify their speech to alleviate social discomfort and enhance confidence in speaking English.
• Individuals who require a North American English accent for career purposes (e.g., actors).

While the decision to seek accent training services is often a personal one, in some instances an individual may be referred by an employer, supervisor or educator. Speaking with a different accent is not reason enough to change one’s accent unless it interferes with effective communication and/or employment.