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I'm also from New England and pronounce it differently, note that the difference is outrageously slight... "debt" is ever-so slightly longer than "det"... best
by micromacrofoot 5y ago
I'm also from New England and pronounce it differently, note that the difference is outrageously slight... "debt" is ever-so slightly longer than "det"... best I can place it is that "debt" is pronounced further back in my mouth and "det" is more toothy.
- SamBam 5y agoThe thing is, "debt" and "det" can be pronounced very slightly differently without claiming that you're "pronouncing the b". A "b" sound is very distinct in English, involving a closing of the lips. If "debt" were instead spelled "deht" (and pronounced exactly the same), readers would claim that they "pronounce the h".
- deleted 5y ago[deleted]
- micromacrofoot 5y agoI wouldn't go as far to say that the "b" is fully pronounced, I agree, but it's almost like it starts to be pronounced... it kind of softens the "t"?