Intonational variation in Hong Kong English: a pilot study

Abstract

Research into intonation of non-native varieties of English in the World Englishes paradigm often has a strong focus on typical features at the expense of variation. The present study employs a unified approach to analyse intonational variation in Hong Kong English (HKE), involving two distinct accents: HKE with global orientations (HKE-gl) and HKE with local orientations (HKE-lo). A closer look at HKE-lo has contributed to the revision of the existing phonological rules of HKE intonation. The study also examines how speakers of HKE style-shift between the two accents. The results show that only speakers of advanced L2 intonation aptitude (not proficiency) have access to both accents. However, the stigmatised status of HKE-lo is linked to its indexical functions. The decision-making process involves factors including polycentricity. The study of intonational variation in HKE has immense implications as speakers of HKE may employ intonational variation to perform social marking and construct identity.

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