Is Accent that Important?

by Maynor Segura

                One of the most common issues concerning the acquisition of a new language is the topic of accent. For some, it is not only communicating in the language but also acquiring “that accent”. Depending on the native language, different speech muscles may have developed in different ranges because the sound the person needs to produce in younger stages in life. For that reason, when a grown-up is learning a new language, he or she may feel uncomfortable at producing certain sounds because his or her vocal cords are not accustomed to produce certain sounds.

                However, considering communication, fluency and clarity are two characteristics that a person learning a new language should focus on. Obviously, when rhythm, intonation and stress produce misunderstandings, it would be really necessary to work on those issues. On the other hand, eloquence and fluency are really appreciate features during a conversation, and a person who is always monitoring his or her pronunciation in every single  detail, may sound fake and not a real conversation.