Reduction: the word AT -- American English Pronunciation

The video tutorial explains how the word 'at' is pronounced differently in sentences compared to when it stands alone. It covers the concept of reductions in American English, focusing on the transformation of 'at' to a schwa sound and the use of stop t or flap t depending on the following sound. The tutorial provides examples in both sentence fragments and full sentences, highlighting the rhythmic contrast in speech. It concludes with encouragement to integrate these reductions into everyday speech and offers additional resources for further learning.

What is the primary vowel sound used in the word 'at' when it stands alone?

• Stop t

• Flap t

• Bat vowel

• Schwa vowel

When does the 't' in 'at' become a stop t?

• When followed by a consonant

• When followed by a diphthong

• When followed by a vowel

• When at the end of a sentence

In the phrase 'at my', what type of 't' is used?

• Aspirated t

• Flap t

• Stop t

• Silent t

Why is the word 'at' pronounced quickly in sentences?

• It is a stressed word

• It provides rhythmic contrast

• It is always at the end of a sentence

• It is a content word

What is the benefit of using reduced forms like 'at' in speech?

• It makes sentences longer

• It adds complexity to speech

• It smooths out the line and adds rhythmic contrast

• It emphasizes every word equally