When Stress is Required
As I progressed in Spanish classes at CSM, I realized that the Spanish language had rigid rules for pronunciation by regulating the accent marks (stressed syllables) of words, and by requiring accents on written words that didn't conform to the these guidelines.
The primary Spanish rules: the accent is on the next-to-last syllable for words ending with vowels, n, or s. Words ending in a consonant, except n and s, are stressed on the last syllable. All word pronunciations that differ from these rules require a written accent to guide the reader in correct pronunciation (la lección & el pájaro). The point is that the Spanish language has consistent rules for pronunciation.
Unfortunately, we do not have similar rules for pronunciation of our North American English language. Although, as Frank Gerace, PhD, in the website, translationdirectory.com, points out: "Usually (although there are some exceptions), the stress of a verb is on the last syllable, and that of the noun is on the first syllable."
Gerace lists two English words that are homographs (words spelled alike but have different meanings) that serve as verbs and nouns and illustrate these general rules:
to susPECT — to have an opinion
a SUSpect — a person under suspicion
to preSENT — to introduce
a PREsent — a gift, now
There are many homographs that conform to this general rule: conflict; contest; control; convert; convict; incline; insult; object; permit; protest; rebel; recall; research; etc. There are some exceptions, such as 'surface' and 'cement.' This guide for pronouncing homographs seems like a good general rule to use in the absence of a precedent or a dictionary.
While this pattern is consistent for most homographs, it's not taught in our schools as a general guide to pronouncing the homographs; perhaps it should. Also, intonation in our speech is critically important to convey our meaning accurately.
To quote Gerace:"But what interests us now is the issue of intonation, and in particular the difference in intonation in saying the same word (same spelling) when it is used as a noun and when it is used as a verb. It is a perfect example of how meaning affects intonation.
Intonation, the "music" of a language, is perhaps the most important element of a correct accent. Many people think that pronunciation is what makes up an accent. It may be that pronunciation is very important for an understandable accent. But it is intonation that gives the final touch that makes an accent correct or native. Often we hear someone speaking with perfect grammar, and perfect formation of the sounds of English but with a little something that gives her away as not being a native speaker." (End of quote)
Remember, language is an art, not a science, and our choice and intonation of words can create elegant beauty. But also remember, the essence of elegance is simplicity. To quote William Butler Yeats: Think like a wise man but communicate in the language of the people.
Edited by Elaine Burns
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