Tips for Practicing Your American Accent at Home

Learning a second language as an adult means you will likely have an accent. And that’s okay! The objective of accent modification training isn’t to completely lose your accent but to ensure it doesn’t interfere with your social or professional relationships. Many people see their accent as part of their identity, and some even find mild accents charming. The goal is to help you speak clearly and effectively without your accent becoming a barrier. By integrating these tips into your daily routine, you can make significant progress in practicing your American accent at home.

American English has a variety of accents, from Boston and New York to Texas and beyond. While there are around 30 major regional accents in the U.S., more than half of the population speaks in what’s considered “standard American English.” Here are some tips to help you practice your American accent at home:

1. Use an Online Dictionary

Download an online dictionary app or bookmark one in your browser. Choose one that offers audio recordings of words and phonetic transcriptions. English isn’t a phonetic language, so familiarize yourself with the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to help with pronunciation.

2. Create Word Lists

• Important Words: Keep a list of words important for your job, business, or personal life, and ensure you’re pronouncing them correctly.
• Mispronounced Words: Maintain a list of words you’ve mispronounced in the past and review it frequently.

3. Combine Reading and Listening

Read books in paper or digital format while listening to the audiobook version. Follow along in the text while listening, and replay sections if needed to hear the pronunciation again.

When streaming movies or shows in English, turn on the Closed Caption feature. This allows you to listen to the dialogue and follow along with the text, reinforcing your understanding and pronunciation.

4. Explore Available Resources

• Books: Look for books on American English accent and pronunciation.
• Youtube: Watch instructional videos on accent training.
• Websites: Find pertinent websites offering free information, and revisit them frequently for updates. You can browse the other resources we offer here. 
• Social Media: Follow relevant social media accounts for tips and inspiration.

5. Seek Feedback

Find a trusted friend to give you honest feedback about your accent. Let them know you welcome their corrections if you mispronounce a word. You can also ask for general feedback from others if you feel comfortable.

6. Follow Your Accent Training Program

If you’re enrolled in an accent training program, make sure to complete your “homework” or “home practice” assignments. Like learning to play the piano or tennis, attending sessions alone isn’t enough. Keep practicing your American accent at home. Consistent practice is key to proficiency.

Learn more about our accent training program. 

Remember, the goal is not to eliminate your accent but to enhance your communication skills and boost your confidence in every interaction. Looking for more resources? Sign up for our newsletter.