A Phonological and Prosodic Analysis of English Pronunciation by Japanese Learners

This study considers the pronunciation of Japanese learners of English. Its first intent is to offer a brief overview of Japanese phonological and prosodic features to highlight anticipated L1 transfer issues in spoken English output. It then explores the segmental and suprasegmental aspects of a short recorded performance by two intermediate Japanese learners of English against a sample of Received Pronunciation [RP]. Through contrastive analysis, the paper reflects on the pedagogical implications raised by the findings and makes suggestions for greater focus on three interrelated areas: prosodic skills development, awareness-raising of L1 and L2 differences, and accommodation strategies to support and enhance intelligibility. It does this from a perspective of English as an International Language [EIL] and the acknowledgment of its growing importance in global communication between non-native speakers.