Received Pronunciation

Definition

Received Pronunciation (RP) is an accent of British English that is often associated with educated speakers and is considered a prestigious form of pronunciation. It serves as a linguistic standard in the UK, often viewed as a marker of social class and regional identity, reflecting the influence of social norms and expectations surrounding language use.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Received Pronunciation is often referred to as 'the Queen's English' or 'BBC English,' highlighting its association with authority and media.
2. Although RP has historically been viewed as the 'correct' way to speak English, it represents only a small percentage of English speakers in the UK.
3. The perception of RP has evolved over time; it was once seen as a symbol of education and prestige but is increasingly viewed as elitist.
4. RP is characterized by features such as non-rhoticity, where the 'r' at the end of words isn't pronounced, and specific vowel sounds that differ from regional accents.
5. The use of RP can influence social mobility; individuals who speak with this accent may be perceived as more competent or professional in various contexts.

Review Questions

• How does Received Pronunciation function as a marker of social class in the UK?
  • Received Pronunciation acts as a linguistic symbol that distinguishes social class and educational background among speakers in the UK. It is often associated with higher social status and elite institutions, suggesting that those who use RP are educated and come from privileged backgrounds. This accent can create barriers for speakers of regional dialects, as they may be judged negatively or seen as less competent compared to those who speak with Received Pronunciation.
• Discuss how Received Pronunciation relates to the concept of standardization in language.
  • Received Pronunciation embodies the standardization of British English, serving as a model for teaching pronunciation and grammar in educational settings. Its prominence reinforces certain linguistic norms that establish what is considered 'correct' English. This standardization process impacts regional dialects and accents by positioning RP as the preferred form, which can lead to marginalization of local variations and reinforce societal hierarchies based on language use.
• Evaluate the implications of Received Pronunciation's evolving perception in contemporary society.
  • The changing perception of Received Pronunciation reflects broader societal shifts regarding class and identity. While it was once deemed prestigious, its association with elitism has sparked discussions about inclusivity in language. As attitudes toward diversity and representation evolve, there is a growing recognition that all accents hold value. The diminishing prestige of RP could lead to increased acceptance of regional accents in professional settings, promoting a more egalitarian view of communication in society.

Related terms

Dialect: A particular form of a language that is specific to a region or social group, encompassing variations in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Accent: The distinctive way in which words are pronounced in different regions or by different groups, influenced by factors like geography, social status, and ethnicity.

Standard English: A form of the English language that is widely accepted as the norm, characterized by its adherence to specific grammatical rules and usage conventions.