Linking:
Linking
Linking is a phonological process in which the final sound of one word is connected to the initial sound of the next word. This can create a smoother and more natural flow of speech.
Types of linking:
- Consonant-vowel linking: This occurs when a consonant at the end of one word is linked to a vowel at the beginning of the next word. For example: “want to” → “wanta”, “look at” → “lookat”.
- Vowel-vowel linking: This occurs when a vowel at the end of one word is linked to a vowel at the beginning of the next word. For example: “go out” → “go out”, “see you” → “see you”.
Linking can affect the pronunciation of words and can make them easier or harder to understand. However, it is a natural part of spoken language and is often used by native speakers.
Understanding linking is important for learning English pronunciation and for improving communication skills. By being aware of linking patterns, learners can avoid common pronunciation errors and produce more natural-sounding English.
Would you like to practice some linking exercises?
