Received Pronunciation meaning

Received Pronunciation definitions

Received Pronunciation, often abbreviated as RP, is the accent of Standard English in the United Kingdom. It is the accent traditionally perceived as the prestigious or educated way of speaking in England. Received Pronunciation is associated with the British upper class and is often used as a model for teaching English to non-native speakers.

History of Received Pronunciation

RP has its roots in the English public schools of the late 18th and 19th centuries. It originated as a way for students from diverse regional backgrounds to communicate with each other in a standardized accent. Over time, RP became associated with social status and education, leading to its reputation as the accent of the elite.

Characteristics of Received Pronunciation

RP is characterized by the pronunciation of certain sounds, such as the short 'a' sound in words like 'bath' or 'dance', which is typically pronounced as a more central vowel than in other accents. RP speakers also tend to use non-rhotic speech, dropping the 'r' sound at the end of words like 'car' or 'far'.

Usage of Received Pronunciation

While RP was once the standard accent for broadcasting and public speaking in the UK, its influence has waned in recent years. Modern British society is more diverse, and different accents are now heard on the airwaves and in public discourse. However, RP still retains a certain prestige and is often associated with authority and professionalism.

Conclusion

Received Pronunciation continues to hold a special place in the history of the English language. While its influence may have diminished, its legacy as the accent of the British elite remains intact. Whether in literature, film, or public speaking, RP serves as a reminder of the rich linguistic tapestry of the United Kingdom.

Received Pronunciation Examples

1. The actor's Received Pronunciation accent landed him a role in the period drama.
2. She practiced her Received Pronunciation in order to sound more posh.
3. The teacher encouraged the students to use Received Pronunciation during their presentation.
4. His Received Pronunciation made him stand out during the job interview.
5. The news anchor's Received Pronunciation was clear and easy to understand.
6. The audiobook narrator's Received Pronunciation added a touch of sophistication to the story.
7. She hired a voice coach to help her perfect her Received Pronunciation for her role in the play.
8. The professor's Received Pronunciation made his lectures even more engaging.
9. The telecommunications company provided training for employees to improve their Received Pronunciation on customer service calls.
10. He was often mistaken for being British due to his impeccable Received Pronunciation.

Most accessed