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American English speakers use linking to join words toegether so that they are easy to say and flow together smoothly. It often sounds like people are saying one long word since they are no spaces between words.
Here are 2 common types of linking in American spoken English.
Consonant to vowel linking
When words that end in a consonant sound are adjacent to words that begin with a vowel sound the consonant sound becomes part of the second word. To link these words together hold the consonant sound of the first word until you say the vowel sound of the second word.
Here are some examples:
1.. likes it = likes-sit
2. laughed at = laught-tat
3. explain it = explain-nit
In the above phrases the consonant is the last sound of the first word and the first sound in the adjacent word.
Vowel to vowel linking
When words that end in a vowel sound are adjacent to words that begin with a vowel sound English speakers add a /y/ or /w/ sound to link them together.
Here are some examples:
1. too + early = toowearly
2. who + is + it = whowizit
3. I + am = Iyam
If you can use linking when you are speaking with Americans your accent will improve and people will understand you more easily!
Eva Easton has some nice lessons on linking in English pronunciation on her website.
You can also read and print my article called Improve Your American English Pronunciation and Reduce Your Accent With Linking.
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