Accent Modification: The /v/ Sound The /v/ sound in English may seem simple, but it causes difficulty for many learners whose first language is not English. Clear pronunciation of /v/ is important because it can change meaning and affect how easily you are understood. Words like very, leave, and voice rely on this sound, and confusing …

More Idioms and Fixed Expressions Idioms and fixed expressions often enrich our language, allowing us to convey complex ideas succinctly. Today, we’ll explore five widely used expressions: glass ceiling, a dime a dozen, on an ad hoc basis, keep/stay abreast of something, and make amends to someone/for something. Understanding their meanings and usage can help you …

The Importance of Intonation in English Pronunciation Intonation—the rise and fall of pitch in speech—is one of the most powerful yet overlooked elements of English pronunciation. While learners often focus on individual sounds or stress, intonation plays a major role in conveying attitude, emotion, and intent. The same sentence can sound polite, irritated, uncertain, enthusiastic, or …

English Rhythm: The Pattern of Stressed and Unstressed Syllables Rhythm is one of the most defining features of English pronunciation. Unlike many languages that place nearly equal weight on each syllable, English is a stress-timed language. This means the rhythm is built around a regular beat of stressed syllables, while the unstressed syllables “fit in” between …

CELPIP Writing Task 1 In today’s blog, I’m going to break down three CELPIP Writing Task 1 responses to show why each one received its specific score. Many students struggle to understand what separates a Band 5 email from a Band 7 or a Band 10, so I’ll walk you through the key differences in tone, …