大象传媒

Is RP the standard English pronunciation?

Why don't the majority of British people speak RP English - the received pronunciation?   Michelle Shen, Nanchang

Have you been trying very hard to speak English with the 'standard' pronunciation, or RP (received pronunciation)?

You may be surprised to find just how small the number of RP speakers is in the UK. As a matter of fact, most people speak with a regional accent.

Why then don't the majority of British try to speak that 'perfect English' while the Chinese learners of English are trying to adopt RP?

Listen to Lily's report and find the answer. Afterwards challenge yourself to a mini quiz.

Do you have a question about Britain?
你有没有对英国的疑问？

Then email us at chinaelt@bbc.co.uk or

欢迎你把问题通过电子邮件发给我们：肠丑颈苍补别濒迟蔼产产肠.肠辞.耻办