The Freedom of Free Variation

Persistent URL of this record https://hdl.handle.net/1887/28317

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Linguistics (MA)

Zwaag, Iris van der (2014)

The Freedom of Free Variation

Master thesis | Linguistics (MA)

This study focuses on the variation in pronunciation of 18 Dutch loanwords. These loanwords know variation in a vowel or consonant, or in their stress pattern. With the help of a questionnaire and wordlist, the varying pronunciation forms of these Dutch loanwords were analysed. By studying the origin of these loanwords, it became evident whether the donor language influenced the pronunciation. It became clear that French is the most influential donor language with regards to the pronunciation. Correlations with sex, age, region, educational level, and dialect proficiency were also studied to find any patterns. The social variables sex and educational level influenced the choices speakers made for a certain pronunciation form the most.

Longman Pronunciation Dictionary

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