American Accent Intonation

Summary

In this video, Jim Johnson discusses American intonation patterns, highlighting the tendency to drop off at the ends of phrases, which is common in American speech. He explains the 'stairstep' intonation, where pitch rises and falls, and mentions the blending of sounds in urban accents, particularly in African-American vernacular and Southern dialects. The phenomenon of 'up talk,' prevalent in Southern California, makes statements sound like questions, especially among young females. Additionally, vocal fry, characterized by a creaky voice, is becoming increasingly common across genders, reflecting evolving trends in communication.

Takeaways

• 😀 Americans often drop off at the ends of phrases, creating a common intonation pattern.
• 😀 The 'stairstep' effect in American speech involves rising and falling intonations, similar to going up or down stairs.
• 😀 Most Americans operate within a small intonation range unless expressing excitement.
• 😀 Urban accents often blend sounds together, leading to some words losing elements during speech.
• 😀 There is a tendency in some American accents, particularly Southern California, to use 'uptalk,' making statements sound like questions.
• 😀 'Vocal fry' is characterized by a creaky, croaky voice and is becoming more prevalent in younger speakers.
• 😀 Young females are increasingly viewed as successful when using uptalk and vocal fry, influencing trends across demographics.
• 😀 The blending of sounds and dropping of some elements is common in both urban and Southern accents.
• 😀 Many stereotypes about American accents are linked to specific regions and demographics, like urban centers and Southern states.
• 😀 The evolution of intonation patterns in American speech reflects broader cultural trends and influences.

Q & A

What is a common intonation pattern among American speakers?

Most Americans tend to drop off at the ends of phrases, indicating a complete finish.

How does the 'stairstep' intonation pattern work in American speech?

Americans often speak in a stairstep format, where they may go up or down in pitch, sometimes taking two steps for emphasis, but typically operate within a small range.

What role does excitement play in American intonation?

When Americans get really excited, they may shift outside their usual pitch range, but most of the time they operate within a fairly small range.

What are some common blending patterns in urban American accents?

In many urban accents, particularly African-American vernacular and Southern accents, words may blend together and lose certain sounds due to the speakers' familiarity.

What is 'uptalk,' and how is it perceived in American culture?

Uptalk, or raising the pitch at the end of statements, is often associated with Southern California and is increasingly viewed as a sign of success among young females.

What is vocal fry, and how is it characterized?

Vocal fry refers to a creaky or croaky voice that occurs when the vocal folds meet irregularly, and it's commonly heard in younger females today.

How does the speaker connect the vocal fry trend to cultural influences?

The speaker suggests that the trend of vocal fry is being adopted by men as well, largely following trends set by young females.

What stereotype is associated with urban centers regarding intonation?

There is a stereotype that many urban centers have accents that blend sounds and may drop certain elements, especially when speakers are from the same area.

Why does the speaker mention Henry Kissinger in relation to vocal fry?

Henry Kissinger's voice is used as a reference point for vocal fry, illustrating the distinct creaky quality associated with this intonation.

What is the significance of the website mentioned at the end of the transcript?

The website accenthelp.com is suggested for those seeking more information about American accents and intonation patterns.