Phonetic Attrition

Abstract

Phonetic attrition, that is changes in native speech upon acquisition of a second language or dialect post adolescence, reflects malleability of the native language system, with potential trickle down effects initially evidenced in phonological attrition. Examining a range of studies into segmental and prosodic attrition, this chapter discusses phonetic attrition as it occurs in native speech and reflects on interpersonal differences, as well as different developmental processes which underlie phonetic attrition.