Frequency information and reduction in second-language perception of multi-word sequences
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36505/ExLing-2023/14/0026/000620Keywords:
Multi-word sequences, Second language processing, Phonetic reductionAbstract
Entrenchment of multi-word sequences is known to shape native language competence, but there is debate about how much it affects L2 speakers. We investigate advanced English learners’ receptive processing of multi-word sequences with a word-monitoring experiment. The effect of reduction on recognition of the word to was tested in English V-to-Vinf constructions of varying surface frequencies and transitional probabilities. Results show that high frequency facilitates recognition of both full and reduced forms. Unlike native speakers, there is no chunking effect of high-frequency reduced forms and no facilitating effect of transitional probability. The findings suggest that advanced L2 learners draw on basic frequency information, but do not make use of the full range of probabilistic cues available to native speakers.
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