Pretty much everyone agrees that British accents are the sexiest accents on the planet. If you weren't fortunate enough to be born in a location where the accent is used, then it's probably hard for you to fake it. Of course, you can always train your brain and tongue to speak in a different way. It just takes time, patience, and knowledge. If you want to sound as sexy as you feel, here are a few ways to fake a British accent:
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1. Pronounce "U" as “Ew”
It's time to train your mouth to move in a different way than it's used to moving. After all, most words are going to be pronounced differently when you say them in a British accent. For example, when you say certain words, such as "stupid," you should pronounce the "u" like "ew." You should do the same with words like "duty" and "snooty."
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The trick is to add a posh twist by elongating the sound slightly, so it's more like 'dew-ty' rather than a flat "duty." For added authenticity, practice with phrases where "u" pops up frequently. Try saying "It's absolutely crucial to include a delightful tune in the musical." The more you repeat such sentences, the more natural the accent will feel. Remember, consistency is key, darling, so keep at it, and soon you'll be chatting like a Brit without even thinking about it!
2. Always Enunciate "-ing" Words
The British always sound so eloquent, because they know how to enunciate when they speak. That's why certain letters should be enunciated more than others when you're trying to copy their accent. For instance, when you're saying an "-ing" word, like swimming or singing, you should make sure to pronounce the G strongly. Never leave that "G" out completely and say "swimmin'."
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In the Queen's English, the ending of words is crisply articulated—without turning the "g" silent. This might seem minor, but the way you say your -ing endings can really affect the authenticity of your British accent. Whether you're planning to act in a play or just impress your mates, mastering this subtle detail can make a huge difference. Just picture saying "darling" versus "darlin'." The former sounds thoroughly British, while the latter might send you across the pond to America. So remember, that 'g' is not just for show!
Frequently asked questions
Yes, most people can learn to fake a British accent with practice and by listening to native speakers.
Key features include pronouncing 't' clearly in the middle of words, using a softer 'r,' and changing the way you pronounce vowels, like 'a' in 'bath'.
You can practice by listening to British speakers in movies or on TV, repeating phrases, and recording yourself to hear how you sound.
It can be seen as offensive or disrespectful if it's done to make fun of people. Always use your fake accent in a respectful way.
Yes, mastering any accent, including a British one, takes time and consistent practice to sound convincing.
3. Don't Always Pronounce the "T"
When a "t" comes at the end of a word, you should typically enunciate it. However, when it comes in the middle of a word, you might have to skip the sound of the "t" completely. For instance, when you say the word "battle," you don't have to use the sound at all. You remove it completely.
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When attempting to fake a British accent, one of the most important things to keep in mind is to not always pronounce the "t" sound. This is because in British English, the "t" sound is often omitted in the middle of a word, and only pronounced at the end. For example, when saying the word "battle," the "t" sound is not pronounced. This is a common feature of British English, and is something to keep in mind when trying to sound like a native.
This is not to say that the "t" sound is always omitted in British English, as there are certain words where the "t" sound is pronounced even when it is in the middle of the word. This is especially true when the "t" is followed by a consonant or when the "t" is doubled. For example, the word "bottle" is pronounced with a "t" sound in British English.
4. Say the Words like They're Written
Some people are taught to pronounce words in completely different ways than they're written. However, when you speak in a British accent, most words are pronounced the way that they look. For instance, if you say "been," it's pronounced like the word "bean." When they say "herb," the "H" sound in it is actually pronounced, unlike the way that it is pronounced in other areas.
5. Use British Slang
It's not enough to pronounce words like you're British. You also need to use British slang if you want to sound authentic. That means you should stop saying "crush" and start saying "fancy." Drop all of your country's slang and replace it with British slang.
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If you want to sound like a true Brit, you need to learn some of the local slang. British slang is a mix of words and phrases that have been adopted over the years from other languages, such as Cockney rhyming slang and Polari. It can be used to express emotions or describe a situation in a more vivid way. For example, instead of saying "I'm really angry," you could say "I'm fit to be tied."
British slang has its own unique phrases and idioms. For example, "naff" means "not cool," while "bog off" means "go away." You may also hear people using terms like "chuffed," which means "pleased," or "knackered," which means "tired."
When it comes to British slang, there are some words and phrases that are more commonly used in certain parts of the country. For example, in London, people often use the word "bloke" to refer to a man, while in Scotland, people might say "jakey" or "keelie" instead.
6. Shorten “Ary” Words
Instead of pronouncing legendary by sounding out each syllable, you should push the "ary" sound together. It's almost as if the "a" is removed from the word and only the "ry" sound is left at the end.
7. Listen to the British Speak
The best way to learn a language is to live in the place where the language is spoken. The same method works when you're trying to learn an accent. Of course, since you probably pick up and leave for London, you can settle for watching British television shows, movies, and YouTubers. The more you listen to their voices, the easier it'll be to mimic them.
Not all British women speak with the same type of accent, but these tips should help you get the gist of how most people assume that they sound. Are British accents your favorite type of accents, or is there another kind that you prefer?
Comments
ibrahim: #5 I'm British we don't say fancy we say crush too
Alexandra121: I never realised how I sounded until I read this, I'm British by the way, why would anyone want to sound like us haha
Olivia: Well said @Channce
Ella: Why the hell would people want to fake an accent it's so bloody cringe worthy I can feel the capillaries in brain popping
K8_Sheard: I guess this is a guide to speaking Estuary English. A lot of this doesn't apply to more Northern accents
TorriWyatt: I love to hear other accents, and totally love people's reaction to mine...... don't try to copy, or be something you are not
Kim: I think accents are interesting. Some people who don't know me think I have an accent and it's cool. This post may not completely make sense, but accents are cool. For example people from Halifax sound different than those in Tennessee, who in turn sound different than an English speaker who grew up in Brittany.
Katie: I live in the midlands and believe me you definitely do not want to imitate my accent lol! X
annie: The most pointless post ever! Britain has many accents not just a London accent
karen: Ermmmm
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