B2noun1K

Accent

UK /["/ˈæksent//ˈæksənt/"]/US /["/ˈæksent//ˈæksənt/"]/

Definition

a way of pronouncing the words of a language that shows which country, area or social class a person comes from; how well somebody pronounces a particular language

In simple words: The way someone pronounces words.

Examples

  • Her accent makes it clear that she comes from the south.
  • He has a strong French accent that gives away his nationality.
  • The musician added an accent to the melody to make it more interesting.
  • In poetry, an accent can change the rhythm of the lines.
  • She spoke with an accent that I couldn't quite place.
  • The teacher taught us how to put the correct accent on the last syllable.
  • His accent is a mix of British and American influences.
  • The director wanted to accent the main themes in her film.

Usage notes

Use 'accent' to describe someone's pronunciation. It is neutral in tone but can be formal in linguistic studies. Avoid using it to stereotype or make fun of someone's speech.

Grammar pattern

accent + noun (e.g., 'British accent')

Memory hint

Think of 'accent' as 'a-scent' — the smell of someone's speech, unique to them.

Collocations

  • broad
  • heavy
  • marked
  • hint
  • trace
  • have
  • speak in
  • speak with
  • in an accent
  • with an accent
  • without an accent

Synonyms

  • stress
  • emphasis

Antonyms

  • monotone
  • uniformity

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'dialect' — an accent is about pronunciation, whereas a dialect includes vocabulary and grammar.
  • Incorrectly using 'accent' as a verb — it's primarily a noun.
  • Mixing up 'accent' with 'inflection'; inflection refers to changes in pitch or tone.