The phonetics of the German language is quite simple: the rules of pronunciation and reading of words in German do not cause difficulties. Of course, there are exceptions and features too. But the right lessons with the teacher and independent work will allow you to learn the language, to speak with little or no accent.
Phonetics in German is based on 44 sounds: 16 vowels, 22 consonants, 3 diphthongs and 3 affricates. Words that German language borrowed from other languages can be based on the use of certain non-standard sounds: there are 11. These are exceptions: such sounds are not found in traditional German words.
Vowels in German
The rules of phonetics divide vowels into sounds of the front and back – in accordance with the position that the language occupies in pronunciation. In length distinguish long and short. Duration depends on the features formed by the sounds of syllables. Two vowels in one syllable, pronounced as one – is a diphthong.
Consonants in german language
The pronunciation of words in German phonetics implies a varying degree of voice participation in voicing consonants. Given this, they determine the deaf, sonorous, sonorous sounds. Together-pronounced double consonant – affrricat.
Pronunciation of words with the right stress
The phonetics of the German language implies a fixed arrangement of stress. Very few cases when this order is violated. At the root of emphasis emphasizes the first syllable. If the word is prefixed, the stress will be either on it or on the root. Most postfixes are unstressed.
Reading and pronunciation of complex words in German is based on the use of two stressed syllables: main, minor. When reading shock abbreviations, there will always be the last letter. All official words – unstressed. The pronunciation of words also implies the use of logical stress: the emphasis is on the word that defines the meaning of the phrase.
The secrets of the correct pronunciation
The pronunciation of the words under the condition of working with a good teacher will immediately give the desired result. If a person previously taught phonetics at school or independently, he automatically “mastered” several pronunciation errors. They will have to be corrected. The best way is regular training of the vocal apparatus. From the very beginning, you need to try to pronounce the sounds correctly. If it does not work out, it is better to achieve a good sound slowly, gradually accelerating the pronunciation to the desired limit. Other tips:
Reading words in the German language should be supplemented with independent speech exercises. Help patters, songs, proverbs. It is better to record speech on a dictaphone: listen, identify errors, immediately work on phonetics.
Leading on German news stations have a reference pronunciation. While learning a language, develop a habit of listening to such a radio “background” more often in daily activities.
Watching movies, videos will allow you to better develop your pronunciation in German: pay attention to the articulation of the speakers when they make difficult sounds for you. Try to repeat after them, training in front of the mirror.
Important: find one variant of pronunciation. Determine which dialect you are learning. This will avoid confusion.
Avoid writing and reading transcriptions of German words in Russian letters. Such an approach only hurts.
The key rule: phonetics and reading and in German need to learn, work out only with the teacher. No one has yet managed to learn to speak correctly on their own. But to combine lectures with competently organized independent work is highly recommended.