Received Pronunciation

Definition

Received Pronunciation (RP) is a prestigious accent of British English, often associated with the educated upper class and the BBC. It serves as a standard form of pronunciation, distinguishing itself from regional dialects and accents in England. RP is significant in social contexts, as it can influence perceptions of authority, intelligence, and social class.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. RP is often referred to as the 'Queen's English' or 'BBC English' due to its association with the British monarchy and national broadcasting.
2. Only a small percentage of the UK population actually speaks with an RP accent, yet it holds significant cultural capital in many professional and educational settings.
3. The accent has evolved over time, with contemporary RP showing influences from regional accents and greater inclusivity of different speech patterns.
4. In linguistic studies, RP is used as a reference point for teaching pronunciation and phonetics due to its clear enunciation and lack of regional markers.
5. Critics argue that RP perpetuates class divisions and can lead to biases against speakers of non-RP accents in both social and professional contexts.

Review Questions

• How does Received Pronunciation differ from other regional accents in terms of social perception?
  • Received Pronunciation is perceived as a marker of education and higher social status compared to regional accents. While RP is often associated with authority and professionalism, other accents may carry stereotypes or biases that can affect how speakers are viewed in society. This difference can impact social mobility and opportunities for individuals based on their accent.
• Discuss the role of Received Pronunciation in media representation and its influence on public perception.
  • Received Pronunciation has played a significant role in media representation, particularly in news broadcasting where clarity and authority are valued. This has led to a perception that RP speakers are more credible or trustworthy. However, this emphasis on RP can marginalize regional accents, reinforcing stereotypes and potentially influencing how audiences perceive speakers from different backgrounds.
• Evaluate the implications of Received Pronunciation on linguistic identity and social dynamics within the UK.
  • Received Pronunciation impacts linguistic identity by establishing a 'standard' accent that carries prestige but also marginalizes those with regional accents. This dynamic creates social stratification, as individuals with RP may have advantages in educational and professional settings. The continued prominence of RP raises questions about inclusivity and representation in society, challenging the notion that linguistic diversity should be celebrated rather than suppressed.

Related terms

Dialect: A particular form of a language that is peculiar to a specific region or social group, featuring distinct vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Accent: A distinctive way of pronouncing a language that reflects regional or social identity, including variations in pitch, tone, and speed.

Estuary English: A blend of Received Pronunciation and London speech patterns, commonly spoken in the southeast of England, reflecting social mobility and changing attitudes towards accents.