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Measures of native and non-native rhythm in a quantity language
Verna Stockmal1, Dace Markus, Dzintra Bond
1Department of Linguistics, Gordy Hall 383, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA. stockmav@ohio.edu
Language and Speech
|September 16, 2005
Summary
This study examined acoustic-phonetic metrics for classifying Latvian language rhythm. Results showed that established metrics did not unambiguously classify Latvian, especially for learners, highlighting complexities in rhythm analysis.
Area of Science:
- Phonetics
- Linguistics
- Acoustic Phonetics
Background:
- Traditional language rhythm classification (stress-timed vs. syllable-timed) by Pike.
- Recent proposals by Ramus and Grabe for acoustic-phonetic rhythm metrics.
- Latvian is traditionally classified as a syllable-timed language.
Purpose of the Study:
- To calculate and compare Ramus and Grabe metrics for Latvian.
- To analyze Latvian rhythm in native speakers and Russian learners of varying proficiency.
- To assess the efficacy of acoustic-phonetic metrics in classifying Latvian rhythm.
Main Methods:
- Calculation of Ramus metrics (vocalic interval proportion, consonantal interval variability).
- Calculation of Grabe metrics (Pairwise Variability Indices - nPVI, rPVI).
- Analysis of acoustic-phonetic data from native Latvian speakers and Russian learners.
Main Results:
- Native speakers and proficient learners showed similar rhythmic properties.
- Low-proficiency learners exhibited higher variability in certain rhythmic features.
- Both Ramus and Grabe metrics failed to provide a clear, unambiguous classification for Latvian.
Conclusions:
- Acoustic-phonetic metrics may not definitively classify languages like Latvian.
- Learner proficiency impacts rhythmic properties, potentially complicating classification.
- Further research is needed to refine rhythm classification methods.