LOUISIANA (KTAL/KMSS) — A recent study found that Southern and Cajun accents are among America’s top three most-liked and most desirable in 2023.
The study, conducted by the online language learning platform Preply, stated that the Cajun accent is unique due to its blend of French and English.
The studies top five captivating U.S. accents and the compelling reasons why they charm listeners:
- Southern: ‘Sounds warm and inviting due to its slow, lyrical vowels—reflecting Southern charm and hospitality;’
- Western: ‘Loved for its calming, clear tones, associated with an easygoing lifestyle,’ citing Sam Elliott and Tommy Lee Jones as notable voices.
- Cajun: ‘With its vibrant blend of French and English, the Cajun accent is lively and unique,’
- Hawaiian: ‘The soft, melodic Hawaiian accent resembles a soothing melody;’
- Texan: ‘Known for its slow, rhythmic drawl hinting at warmth and friendliness.
According to PBS, Cajuns are descendants of French settlers. Individuals with Cajun accents ‘talk extremely fast, their vowels are clipped, and French terms abound in their speech.’
The study highlights political strategists James Carville and John Goodman in ‘The Princess and the Frog’ as a notable Cajun voice.
Linguists explain that Southern accents pronounce ‘i’ sounds like ‘ride, or ‘why’ and tend to merge two distinct pronunciations to become indistinguishable called the ‘Southern Vowel Shift.’
In the detailed breakdown, the study cites celebrity examples of Southern accents, including Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, and Billy Ray Cyrus.
In comparison, Preply’s study found the five least desirable accents:
- Chicagoan (Illinois): ‘Strong vowels and nasal tones; sometimes described as similar to a stale, frozen flapjack.’
- New Yorker (New York City): ‘Fast-paced and distinct, it is sometimes perceived as nasal, fast, or rude.’
- Southern Ohioan (Southern Ohio): ‘This accent is defined by its mild, flat tone, which some consider lackluster.’
- Mid-Atlantic: ‘Inflexion draws praise (clear, transatlantic quality) and criticism (seen as artificial) and isn’t tied to any location.’
- New Jerseyan (New Jersey): ‘Known for its strong vowels and distinct character but often strikes listeners as too nasal, fast, or rude.’
