Abstract:
This study examines the phonetic problems that Iraqi speakers encounter when
learning and speaking English. The analysis of the data collected reveal s that Iraqi learners face
difficulty in the production of most English diphthongs. The comparative analysis between Iraqi
English (IE) and Standard British English (BE) helps in determining which similarities and
differences either facilitate or hinder communication. The study offers a phonetic description and
analysis of IE as spoken by five Iraqis. First, the study explores the problems that these
speakers face in the pronunciation of English. Second, it compares their spoken English with
Standard British English (BE). Third, it reveals the pedagogical implications that result from the
comparison.