Abstract
Prosody, which encompasses the suprasegmental properties of speech, plays a vital role in conveying meaning, emphasis, and emotions in spoken language. However, the intricate relationship between prosody and language structure has posed challenges in unravelling its nature and functions. Our understanding of the implications of cross-linguistic variation on prosodic processing also remains limited. The objective of this dissertation is to address these gaps by exploring the impact of differences between English and German, two closely related languages. By studying these languages, we can gain valuable insights into the specific influences of language structure on prosody. Specifically, this research aims to examine the differences in accommodation strategies used by English and German speakers in the production of nuclear pitch contours, variations in their reliance on prosodic cues for lexical access, and differences in the use of pitch cues to convey meaning. We furthermore investigate prosodic processing in non-native speakers and listeners, as people’s first language may influence their ability to effectively comprehend and produce prosody in a second language.In this thesis, we conducted a series of studies across three levels of prosodic processing: phonetic realisation, word stress, and phrase-level prosody.
The results of this research highlight the intricate relationship between language structure and prosodic processing. The influence of native prosodic processing on non-native prosodic processing also highlights the importance of considering the influence of native language and language-specific features when examining non-native prosody. By unravelling the intricacies of prosodic patterns in closely related languages, we gain valuable insights into the influence of language-specific factors in shaping the use and interpretation of prosodic cues.
| Date of Award | 2023 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Laurence Bruggeman (Supervisor) |