004 – ¿Existe el Español Neutro? | Does Neutral Spanish Exist?

In this episode, Jim and May discuss the concept of “neutral Spanish.” Does it exist? Who speaks it? Do some countries have a more neutral accent than others?

Jim and May also discuss how some news reporters, politicians, and Spanish teachers modify the way they speak to help others understand them better or even make them feel more connected to them by speaking with a more familiar accent.
Listen to some tips about how you can learn a more “ well-rounded Spanish” like:

-Focusing on the accent or dialect you’re most interested in, or the one that makes the most sense to you.
-Don’t worry too much about knowing it all.
-Learn as you go and don’t be afraid to borrow words or expressions from other Spanish dialects to use those when appropriate.

Links:

• BBC Video: ¡¿Acento neutro en español?! ¿Existe? ¿Y qué país en América Latina lo tiene?
• Keep learning with La Escala
  Turn each episode into Spanish practice with La Escala, our online learning community.
  • Follow along with interactive transcripts, explore breakdown audios in English, and test your understanding with quizzes.
  • Stay consistent with weekly challenges and connect with other Spanish learners.
  • For live conversation clubs and guided grammar practice, explore our Frequent Flyer and First Class plans.

Spanish accents and dialects vary from country to country. And with over twenty Spanish-speaking countries around the world, you can hear a wide variety of c…