TED-Ed: Why don't "tough" and "dough" rhyme? | Arika Okrent

The video explores the complexity of English spelling, starting with the Scripps National Spelling Bee and the challenges of English irregularities. It delves into the historical influences on English, including the Germanic tribes, Roman missionaries, and the Norman invasion, which introduced French and Latin elements. The arrival of the printing press in 1476 further complicated spelling standardization. The Great Vowel Shift between the 14th and 18th centuries significantly altered vowel pronunciations, contributing to the complexity of English spelling today.

What is one reason why English spelling is considered complex?

• It has a consistent set of rules.

• It is influenced by multiple languages.

• It has no historical influences.

• It uses only the Latin alphabet.

Which event introduced French elements into the English language?

• The invention of the printing press

• The arrival of Roman missionaries

• The Norman invasion

• The Great Vowel Shift

How did the printing press contribute to the complexity of English spelling?

• It allowed for multiple spellings to coexist.

• It eliminated all French influences.

• It standardized all spellings immediately.

• It simplified the English language.

What was the original pronunciation of the word 'do'?

• Doe

• Dew

• Dough

• Dah

What was a significant effect of the Great Vowel Shift?

• It made English spelling more intuitive.

• It changed the pronunciation of many vowels.

• It introduced new letters into the alphabet.

• It removed all silent letters.

Which of the following words exemplifies a change in pronunciation due to the Great Vowel Shift?

• Enough

• House

• Knife

• Nat

Why is English considered a difficult language for non-native speakers?

• It has a consistent pronunciation system.

• It uses only one alphabet.

• It has a simple grammar structure.

• It has many historical influences and irregularities.