Syllabic Intensity Variations as Quantification of Speech Rhythm: Evidence from Both L1 and L2

Abstract

In this study, three intensity metrics (ΔS.dB, VarcoS.dB and nPVI.dB) devised on the basis of the well-known durational metrics were tested on both L1 (English and Mandarin) and L2 (L2 English). The results suggested that they were effective in distinguishing “stress-timed” English from perceptually “syllable-timed” Mandarin and L2 English (by Mandarin speakers). These metrics break the impasse that although the L1 and L2 varieties of English were similar on durational measurements, they were perceptually different in rhythmicity. Therefore, it is advised that intensity metrics be applied in future rhythm research.