FLUENT ENGLISH: The “H” Reduction in American English Pronunciation Part 1

The video tutorial explains how reductions in English speech can enhance naturalness and listening comprehension. It focuses on reducing function words starting with 'H' and provides numerous examples. The tutorial also covers linking words, the impact of punctuation on linking, and the distinction between stressed and unstressed words. Viewers are encouraged to practice these reductions to improve their English speaking and listening skills.

Why are reductions important in English communication?

• They are used only in written English.

• They help in sounding more natural.

• They make sentences longer.

• They complicate the language.

What happens to the 'H' sound in function words during reductions?

• It is doubled.

• It is often dropped.

• It is replaced with a 'T' sound.

• It is emphasized.

In the phrase 'I'll tell her', how is the word 'her' reduced?

• By pronouncing it as 'her'

• By dropping the 'H' and linking it to 'tell'

• By emphasizing the 'H'

• By changing it to 'him'

What is the key to linking words when reducing the 'H' sound?

• Ignoring the reduction

• Linking the words smoothly

• Emphasizing the 'H'

• Pausing between words

What is the effect of punctuation on linking sounds in reductions?

• It changes the word order.

• It signifies a pause, preventing linking.

• It encourages linking.

• It has no effect.

Which types of words are generally stressed in a sentence?

• Prepositions and conjunctions

• Nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs

• Articles and helping verbs

• All function words

How is the word 'have' pronounced in the sentence 'What have you done?'

• As 'ha' with a short 'a'

• As 'of' with a schwa sound

• As 'have' with a long 'a'

• With a strong 'H' sound