The influence of codas on the nucleus in Bahnar language

Abstract

When studying the phonetic features of Bahnar language syllables, we observed that the F1 frequency at the end of the vowel in combinations with voiced or voiceless consonants could be equivalent. The rounded back vowel [u] is often influenced by the presence of either a voiceless or voiced final consonant. The vowel openness (F1) of the vowel [u] is linked to the type of final consonant and dialect. This interaction is also evident when comparing these syllables in the Gia Lai and Binh Dinh dialects. Therefore, the vowel openness does not remain constant according to the pronunciation of the final consonant. Regarding the vowel duration, considering the case of the vowel [a], there are similarities when the vowel is combined with either voiceless or voiced final consonants. The combinations of vowel and final consonant also reflect phonetic characteristics specific to the Bahnar dialect. Specifically, in the Bahnar dialect in Vinh Thanh district, Binh Dinh province, there are differences compared to the dialect in Dak Doa district, Gia Lai province concerning vowel phonetics in some final consonant environments.