Explanation
Systematic pronunciation variants of a phoneme that do not distinguish between words in a language. The same sound pattern can sound different and still be recognized as the same linguistic unit.
Example
The German “r” can be pronounced as a rolled “r” or an uvular “r” without, by that alone, creating a different word.
Counterexample
Two sounds that distinguish words are not merely allophones of the same phoneme.
Distinction
Distinguishing from a phoneme: Two sounds that distinguish words are not merely allophones of the same phoneme.
Effect on thought and perception
The same sound pattern can sound different and yet be recognized as the same linguistic unit.
Resonance
Allophony makes a directional relationship perceptible: The same sound pattern can sound different and still be recognized as the same linguistic unit.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Allophony“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-134-001. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-134-001The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.