Pronunciation standard?

[Thomas Paikeday]

I don't think a standard set of pronunciation "symbols" is possible for
this popular but very easy-to-use type of phonetics. Attempts by some
dictionaries to devise systems with one-to-one correspondence of sounds
and symbols have (in my opinion) only made matters worse. However, it is
possible to transcribe any English word or anglicized non-English word
correctly and consistently, as I pointed out here recently in regard to
"Skoplye" (Skopje). See also "Who needs IPA? in ENGLISH TODAY, Jan.
1993. I have advocated this type of pronunciation respelling since 1982.
If I may end with a short blast of my trumpet, I believe I have
explained and used the system successfully in my latest dictionary.
Ahem.

T.M.P.

                 THOMAS M. PAIKEDAY, lexicographer since 1964
         Latest work: "The User's(tm) Webster," Lexicography, Inc., 2000
               ISBN 0-920865-03-8 / utpbooks at utpress.utoronto.ca
=============
Paul McFedries wrote:
>
> In newspapers and magazines you sometimes see pronunciations for words, like
> so:
>
> "The lack of males inhibited the natives' practice of polyandry
> (pol-ee-AN-dree)."
>
> Is there such a thing as a set of standard pronunciation "symbols" for this
> type of phonetic guide? Is it available on the Web?
>
> Thanks a jillion.
>
> Paul
>
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