Wells' JC Longman Pronunciation Dictionary

The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is a widely accepted standard for transcribing words in a clear and consistent manner. However, some dictionaries have deviated from this standard, causing confusion among users. The Oxford Dictionary of Pronunciation for Current English, edited by Clive Upton, is one such example.

Upton's dictionary claims to represent 'current English,' but its transcription methods are questionable. For instance, the vowel sound in 'price' is transcribed as '/ʌɪ/', which may not be familiar to many users. This raises concerns about the dictionary's accuracy and reliability.

Fortunately, there are other pronunciation dictionaries that adhere to the accepted standards of the IPA. Two notable examples are Pronounce English Accurately, a comprehensive guide written by Dr. Richard Stibbard, which covers various aspects of English pronunciation, including consonants and vowels.

In conclusion, when seeking a reliable pronunciation dictionary, it is essential to choose one that follows the accepted standards of the International Phonetic Alphabet. Wells' JC Longman Pronunciation Dictionary is a trusted resource for accurate and consistent transcription.

Wells jc longman pronunciation dictionary