MODIFICATIONS OF CONSONANTS IN CONNECTED SPEECH

Abstract

This scientific article examines the phonetic processes that influence consonants in connected speech and explains how these modifications shape the natural rhythm of spoken English. When words are pronounced continuously rather than in isolation, consonant sounds change under the influence of neighboring sounds, speech rate, and articulatory requirements. The article analyzes four main types of modifications: assimilation, accommodation, elision, and linking. Each process is described in terms of its articulatory mechanism and communicative function. The study also highlights the significance of teaching connected speech phenomena to improve learners’ listening comprehension and pronunciation. By reviewing linguistic research, the article concludes that understanding consonant modifications is essential for achieving fluent and natural spoken English.