Most individuals learning a second language (L2) in adulthood will have a foreign accent. A foreign accent results from differences from native speaker pronunciation norms and often retains traces of the speakers’ first language (L1). Recent research has shown, however, that the reverse is also possible, i.e. that learning an L2 can affect pronunciation in the L1, such that individuals may sound foreign in their L1. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as L1 phonetic attrition.

This project aims to uncover the nature of L1 phonetic attrition by experimentally addressing a series of research questions. First, we investigate whether some areas of pronunciation are more prone to attrition than others – and if so which – by investigating the pronunciation of English expatriates in Austria for perceived differences from the native L1 norm.  

Secondly, we investigate the relationship between subjective perceptions of changes to L1 pronunciation and their measurable acoustic-phonetic manifestation. This will be achieved by systematically comparing those aspects that were perceived as non-native in the L1 to speech productions by native English speakers living in England. In addition, we investigate if changes to L1 pronunciation are caused by interactions with the respective features in the L2, by comparing them to the German pronunciation patterns of native German speakers from Austria.

Finally, we investigate why some individuals are perceived as non-native while others in similar circumstances are not. Accordingly, we examine a large number of variables  that may predict L1 phonetic attrition, e.g. how often the L1 and L2 are used, how old they are when they start learning the L2, how motivated they are, how proficient they are in the L2 etc.

Overall, the project contributes to a better understanding of L1 phonetic attrition by showing how and under what circumstances pronunciation can be ‘unlearned’. The project will also be of practical value for L2 teachers and learners.