The perceptual distinctiveness of the [n-l] contrast in different vowel and tonal contexts.

Abstract

This study investigates the relative perceptual distinction of the [n] vs [l] contrast in different vowel contexts ([_a] vs [_i]) and tonal contexts (high-initial such as HH, HL, vs low-initial such as LL, LH). The results of two speeded AX discrimination experiments indicated that a [n-l] contrast is perceptually more distinct in the [_a] context and with a high-initial tone. The results are consistent with the typology of the [n] vs [l] contrast across Chinese dialects, which is more frequently observed in the [_a] context and with a high-initial tone, supporting a connection between phonological typology and perceptual distinctiveness.