Received Pronunciation and British English
Received Pronunciation (RP) is the accent traditionally regarded as the standard accent of British English. It is often associated with the educated classes and the British Broadcasting Corporation, and has long been described as the accent of the United Kingdom that carries a certain prestige.
Origins and History
Received Pronunciation emerged as a distinct accent in the late 19th century. It became popularized through the influence of public schools and universities, which appealed to the upper and middle classes of England. The term "Received Pronunciation" itself was popularized by the phonetician Daniel Jones, who used it in his "English Pronouncing Dictionary," first published in 1917.
Characteristics of RP
RP is characterized by its particular vowel quality and the use of non-rhoticity, which means the letter 'r' is not pronounced unless it precedes a vowel. For example, in RP, the words “car” and “card” are pronounced as “cah” and “cahd” respectively. Additionally, there are certain phonetic features, such as the trap-bath split, where words like "bath" and "trap" have different vowel sounds than in other English dialects.
British English Varieties
While Received Pronunciation is a hallmark of British English, it is important to note that British English encompasses a wide range of accents and dialects across the United Kingdom, including Scottish English, Welsh English, and regional dialects within England itself. Each of these varieties has its own unique phonetic and lexical characteristics.
Sociolinguistic Significance
In British society, Received Pronunciation has often been associated with authority, education, and status. However, in recent times, there has been a shift towards embracing regional accents and dialects, reflecting a more diverse and inclusive understanding of identity. This shift has been facilitated by media representations and the increasing prominence of regional voices.
Global Influence
The prominence of Received Pronunciation internationally can be attributed to the historical spread of the British Empire, which helped establish English as a global lingua franca. The prestige of RP has influenced the teaching of English as a second language, particularly in former British colonies.
Conclusion
Received Pronunciation and its relationship with British English offer fascinating insights into the linguistic, historical, and social fabric of the United Kingdom. While RP remains a standard, the rich tapestry of British English dialects continues to evolve, reflecting the cultural and linguistic diversity of the region.