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A definite and very frequent process of assimilation is
observed when [s], [z] sounds are followed by the palatal [j] in the

unstressed part of the phrase. The alveolars tend to become
palato-alveolar in informal conversational style.

Spelling Formal Informal

this year 'ðis 'jiə 'ði∫ 'jiə

The palatal [j] is strong enough to affect the manner of

articulation of the preceding [t], [d] sounds. In accordance with
the tempo and style of speech, individual fluency, number of

recipients and other situational factors the assimilated segment
preceding [j] may consist of several sections with gradually

changing features. The process most often leads to an affricate:

would you [wudju: wud'ju wuʤu]

could you [kudju: kudtju kuʤu]

mind you [maindju: maindtju mainʤu]

can't you [ka:ntju: ka:nt∫ju ka:nt∫u]

about you [əbautju: əbaut∫ju əbаut∫u]

The elision of consonants is no less frequent process in

informal speech than a vowel elision. The most common

consonants involved in elision are [t] and [d]. Elision usually
occurs in a syllable final sequence when the sound stands between

two consonants. It is said to be more common for [t] and [d] to be
elided between the other two consonants than it is for them to be

pronounced.
Spelling Formal Informal

second group 'sekənd 'gru:p 'sekəŋ 'gru:p

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