The Importance of Pronunciation: Why Pimsleur Focuses on Speaking from Day One

What’s the most important element of learning a new language? Some apps focus on vocabulary and grammar, while others emphasize single words or even writing. And while these building blocks of language acquisition are important, they fail to capture the “big picture” of actually speaking a different language.

During language acquisition, pronunciation is paramount. If you’re unable to effectively pronounce words and phrases, it can take multiple attempts to convey a thought, ask for directions, or order from a menu. In other words, things can get lost in translation…literally and figuratively.

The importance of pronunciation in language learning is hard to overstate, yet it is curiously glossed over by many language learning platforms and applications – but not Pimsleur. Our app gets you speaking during your very first lesson. And thanks to the Pimsleur Method™, our proprietary, proven method, you’ll focus on key speaking skills – including language pronunciation – to quickly acquire a new language.

Why Pronunciation Matters in Language Learning

Here are some reasons why, for effective language acquisition, pronunciation is so important:

Language pronunciation helps synthesize oral and aural skills. Speaking is improved by listening, and vice versa. Constant practice pronouncing words helps you acknowledge and acquire new sounds by hearing them spoken out loud. This recognition then strengthens your ability to acquire new words and ways of speaking. The better you comprehend pronunciation, the more natural you can pronounce words in different languages.
Pronunciation promotes good habits – and avoids bad ones. Once a habit is formed, it’s difficult to change it. The earlier you acquire and perfect pronunciation skills, the more likely you are to communicate effectively. Improper pronunciation during language acquisition can be quickly corrected, helping to reinforce positive, productive learning habits. Establishing the correct habits as early as possible in your language learning journey is essential.
Proper pronunciation bridges the accent gap. Different accents shouldn’t prevent effective communication between a native and a relatively new speaker. Pronunciation is the link that ensures comprehension and clear communication. The natural rhythm and uniform word sounds produced by solid pronunciation foster greater understanding, even if a speaker’s accent isn’t common within any given language.

Common Pronunciation Challenges Across Different Languages

The pronunciation of words in different languages makes all the difference when conversing with a native speaker. And this critical skill is dependent upon which language you’re trying to acquire. For example, pronunciation differs greatly between French and German. Ask anyone who can speak these two languages fluently, and you’ll learn the importance of pronunciation in language learning.

German pronunciation requires more distinct word segmentation and separation than French. And while proper German pronunciation includes crisp consonant sounds (particularly for endings), French pronunciation typically stresses the final syllable for many words, with nasal-sounding vowels and a more lyrical, free-flowing cadence.

These distinct differences of pronunciation in different languages (French and German) highlight just one area where a pair of popular, widely spoken languages demand specialized speaking skills to master pronunciation.

Regardless of what language you want to learn, Pimsleur can get you from no experience to conversational capability fast. We realize the importance of pronunciation in language acquisition, and provide carefully curated audio lessons supported with helpful tools (like our AI voice coach) to keep pronunciation front and center in your language learning journey.

Language Pronunciation 101: The Science Behind Early Speaking and Accent Formation

Think of the simplest tasks and skills you take for granted, like tying your shoes, brushing your teeth, or even walking. You learned them at a young age. And while some primal activities (such as walking) are partly instinctive, others require constant practice through observation and iteration.

Speaking is no different and, in many ways, is the ultimate “practice makes perfect” endeavor. And that’s just one reason why Pimsleur’s language learning techniques, including pronunciation, help you learn like a child does. Developing oral and aural talents – the ability to speak and listen effectively – is essential in developing superior skills to aid with language pronunciation.

Native language speakers exhibit top-tier pronunciation skills – not because they’re more talented or world-class linguists, but because they’ve honed their abilities from a young, impressionable age. Those who speak at a young age in any language simply sound more fluid and natural, partly because finely-tuned motor skills are practiced and perfected early and often. Proper pronunciation is just as much a physical ability (air control, tongue position, etc.) as a mental one. Plus, important speaking elements such as timing, rhythm, cadence, and stress are naturally formed and refined by speaking at a young age.

Techniques to Improve Pronunciation in Different Languages

Try these methods to perfect your pronunciation skills – for any language, at any age!

Talk to the person in the mirror. As you’re acquiring a new language, take any opportunity to speak – even to yourself! This is a great way to build upon what you’ve already learned and to prepare as you progress toward more complex pronunciation exercises. Set aside a few minutes each day, and you’ll be surprised at how your pronunciation improves.
Learning in a flash. As in, flash cards. This tried-and-true method is great for building vocabulary and pronunciation skills at the same time. And when you use Pimsleur’s app, you have virtual Flash Cards ready to go, wherever you happen to be.
Connect with a native speaker. The true test of your pronunciation development comes with an open and honest critic. And nobody can point out subtle imperfections quite like a native speaker. If you’re fortunate enough to know a native speaker of the language you’re learning, take full advantage of this connection.
Capitalize on Real-time Feedback. Pimsleur’s AI-powered Voice Coach provides pronunciation feedback in real time. You’ll pronounce a phrase, then see which words need some more practice. And Voice Coach doesn’t leave you guessing how to improve your pronunciation. You can drag the tutor icon to a particular word or syllable and listen to a native speaker’s pronunciation breakdown. Then try pronouncing the phrase again. It can be satisfying and motivating to see how you can change your pronunciation and achieve real results quickly.

Improve Your Pronunciation with Daily Speaking Practice

Since Pimsleur gets you speaking from day one, there’s no better platform to practice daily speaking. Using graduated interval recall, organic learning, core vocabulary, and other key pillars of the Pimsleur Method, you’ll soon achieve communication-ready pronunciation skills and have fun learning along the way. Sign up with a Pimsleur subscription today!