Speaking in a Birmingham accent gives a worse impression than saying nothing at all.
So say researchers at Bath Spa University who have been investigating stereotypes associated with accents. The BBC news website reveals more here.
The Daily Telegraph has a longer feature on the same story, adding that "People associate the Birmingham accent with criminal activity and that criminal activity is associated in people's mind with low intellect". But the accent that comes out on top is that of Yorkshire whose speakers are perceived to be wise and intelligent.
The Telegraph also has a feature here where you can contribute your views about accents and read what others have said.
Useful for:
ENA5 - Language Varieties
ENA6 - Language Debates
