Perception and production of Cantonese tones by speakers with different linguistic experiences

Abstract

This study investigates the perception and production of Cantonese tones by speakers who differ systematically in their native prosodic systems and language learning experiences. These include native Cantonese speakers, Mandarin speakers (L1 tone language), English speakers (L1 non-tone language), English speakers who are intermediate Mandarin learners (L1 non-tone, L2 tone experience). Results suggest that both L1 and L2 prosodic experiences shape the perception and production of a new tone system. Mandarin learners outperform native Mandarin speakers in discrimination and imitation of Cantonese tones. Non-native perception and production abilities are positively linked for speakers with tone experience in either a first or a second language, while no correlation is found with English monolinguals.