As a speaker from South Asia (like Bangladesh), I find certain American English sounds or speech patterns particularly challenging to master. These often include the "r" sound, specific vowel distinctions (e.g., the difference between "cot" and "caught"), linking words, and the typical stress patterns of American sentences. What are the most common pronunciation pitfalls for learners from this region when aiming for an American accent, and what targeted exercises or focused listening strategies can help overcome them? Are there specific minimal pairs, tongue twisters, or listening materials that specifically highlight these challenging aspects? I'm looking for practical advice from experienced learners or accent coaches who understand the unique linguistic transfer issues faced by South Asian English speakers.
As a speaker from South Asia (like Bangladesh), I find certain American English sounds or speech patterns particularly challenging to master. These often include the "r" sound, specific vowel distinctions (e.g., the difference between "cot" and "caught"), linking words, and the typical stress patterns of American sentences. What are the most common pronunciation pitfalls for learners from this region when aiming for an American accent, and what targeted exercises or focused listening strategies can help overcome them? Are there specific minimal pairs, tongue twisters, or listening materials that specifically highlight these challenging aspects? I'm looking for practical advice from experienced learners or accent coaches who understand the unique linguistic transfer issues faced by South Asian English speakers.