Friday 29 August 2014

how english sounds to non-english speakers

'Skwerl'. A short film in fake English.
I can't understand a word either:



How English sounds to non-English speakers - YouTube

But millions of people have watched it on YouTube...

Skwerl, A Short Film In Fake English 


kwerl is a short film directed by Brian Fairbairn and “written” by himself and Karl Eccleston. Why do I say “written?” Well, all of the dialogue in the film is complete gibberish, but it’s designed to sound like English to foreign speakers, or native speakers that aren’t quite paying attention; those familiar with English will probably find themselves slipping in and out of it in a really weird way.
The gibberish keeps in line with the common sounds in English, keeps out anything foreign-sounding and results in a weird sort of “could you repeat that for me?” effect. It’s generally referred to as Prisencolinensinainciusol after a (really awesome) music video that specializes in the same phenomenon. Check it out for an interesting, but sort of unsettling treat.
Skwerl, A Short Film In Fake English [Video] | The Mary Sue

With a long thread discussing the film here:
Language Log » What English sounds like if you have Wernicke's aphasia
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