Abstract
Voice‐onset time (VOT) in English maps onto the phonological categories voiced or voiceless, but fine‐grained control of VOT production may vary as a function of additional linguistic features (e.g., lexical frequency, phrasal context, indexical features). This study investigated the patterns of VOT production in words that varied (a) by lexical usage‐frequency (high versus low) and (b) in selected linguistic contexts (isolation, carrier phrase, unfamiliar phrase, familiar phrase). Results show that talkers produced longer VOT for voiceless stops in low‐frequency words in unfamiliar and familiar phrases but not in isolation or carrier sentences. Neither lexical frequency nor phrasal context seemed to induce changes in VOT in voiced stops. Thus, it appears that talkers make use of fine temporal distinctions within the voiceless category but not the voiced. This suggests a complex asymmetry in how continuously varying VOT maps onto more discretely varying phonological categories.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
