CHALLENGES OF INCONSISTENCY IN ENGLISH PRONUNCIATION AND PHONOLOGY

Abstract

The study of language demonstrates that each language possesses its own peculiarities. This study investigates the inconsistent nature of English phonology, which is manifested in irregular sound-to-letter correspondences, mismatches between sounds and letters, and the abundance of silent letters, among other inconsistencies. It argues that, unlike many other languages, English embraces these inconsistencies as inherent features of its phonology. Variations in letter or sound insertion, irregular past tense formation, and the prevalence of silent letters contribute to making English uniquely different from other languages. The study recommends that learners and speakers of English approach the language as it is, setting aside personal assumptions or preferences. It emphasizes that phonology is language-specific and operates within the accepted writing system, distinguishing it from phonetics, which is a universal feature of human language.