Linguistic accommodation in Quebec media
Abstract
This research examines the speech styles in a selection of mass media sources broadcast in French in Quebec during the time period of January-March of 2011. I analyze the speech of the radio and television show hosts and the guests to their respective programs for signs of linguistic accommodation. Specifically, I examine the following linguistic features of Quebec French (QF): (1) The diphthongization of lengthened vowels (2) The assibilation of /t/ and /d/ before the high front semi-vowels and vowels /i, y, j, h/ (3) The nasal vowels [e˜, ã, c˜] (4) Hypothetical infinitives (5) The interrogative particle –tu (6) The use of anglicisms. Using Allan Bell$s (1984) theory of audience design, I show in what ways these speakers relate to their addressees on the programs and to the general public by aligning their speech style with others. In this paper I show that Quebec mass media personae demonstrate accommodation for their general listening public rather than for their interlocutors in most instances.
Degree
M.A.
Advisors
Brown, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Linguistics
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