On the Phonology Characteristics of Leizhou Dialect in Malaysia

Abstract

Based on first-hand materials obtained from field investigations in Malaysia, the results show that: firstly, there are 17 initials in the Leizhou dialect of Malaysia, including the implosives initial and the [f] initial. The pronunciation of Leizhou dialect in China is already rare, some of which are retained in the Leizhou dialect of Malaysia. Its initial consonant is borrowed from local Hua Yu or other Chinese dialects. Secondly, the Leizhou dialect of Malaysia has 46 finals. The pronunciation and timbre of some of its vowels are similar to the Yue dialect of Malaysia [ɐ] main vowel. Thirdly, there are 8 monosyllabic tones in the Leizhou dialect of Malaysia. The pronunciation and tone of some of its characters are similar to the Xia Yin entering tone of Yue dialect of Malaysia.