الصوتيات
Volume 21, Numéro 2, Pages 63-78
2025-12-05

Cross-linguistic Interference In Suprasegmental Phonology: The Influence Of French Stress Patterns On Algerian Efl Learners’ Acquisition Of English Lexical Stress



Authors : Bouallaga Meriem .

Abstract

In Algeria's multilingual context, where French remains rooted in education and society, English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners often face considerable phonological challenges when acquiring English pronunciation. One of the persistent areas of difficulty lies in suprasegmental features, particularly lexical stress placement. This article investigates how French phonological patterns, especially stress predictability, influence the acquisition of English stress placement among second-year EFL students at Badji Mokhtar University, Annaba. The research employs a quantitative method using a questionnaire administered to 105 students. Results reveal a high occurrence of negative language transfer, with students frequently applying fixed final-syllable stress rules from French to English pronunciation, resulting in comprehensibility issues. These errors are intensified by socio-educational exposure to French, limited corrective instruction in suprasegmentals, and learners' misconceptions regarding English stress regularities. The study recommends pedagogical reforms in phonetics teaching, including contrastive phonology instruction, enhanced exposure to native English input, and consciousness-raising tasks.

Keywords

Lexical Stress Transfer ; French Influence on English Pronunciation ; Algerian EFL Learners ; Suprasegmental Features ; Cross-Linguistic Interference

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