# Non-native listener perceptual similarity ratings as a measure of L2 speech production

## TL;DR

This study explores how non-native listeners can judge how similar non-native speech sounds to native speakers in different languages.

## Contribution

It introduces non-native listeners as a valid alternative to native listeners for evaluating second-language pronunciation.

## Key findings

- Similarity ratings were higher for language learners than non-learners across languages.
- Articulation rate and rhythm measures strongly predicted similarity ratings.
- Findings align with prior studies using native listeners to assess L2 pronunciation.

## Abstract

This study investigates the feasibility of using non-native listeners to assess non-native pronunciation of different target languages. Native English-speaking students studying university-level German and French reproduced German, French, and Indonesian sentences based on native-speaker models. Students not pursuing university-level language study did the same. Other native English-speaking students served as non-native listeners, rating the similarity of elicited sentences to native-speaker models. Similarity ratings were higher for language learners compared to non-learners across languages. Articulation rate and interval-based rhythm measures were strong predictors of similarity ratings. Results parallel findings from second-language acquisition studies, wherein native listeners typically evaluate L2 pronunciation.