1. Connected Speech: This is the most general term, referring to how words are pronounced naturally in spoken language, where sounds often blend together.
2. Assimilation: This is a specific type of connected speech where sounds change to become more similar to surrounding sounds. For example, the "t" in "can't" often sounds like a "d" when followed by a vowel sound.
3. Liaison: This refers to the linking of sounds between words, especially when a word ends in a consonant and the next word starts with a vowel. For example, the "t" in "that" might be pronounced as a "d" sound when followed by "apple."
4. Elision: This occurs when a sound is omitted in spoken language, often for ease of pronunciation. For example, "gonna" is a shortened pronunciation of "going to."
5. Phrasal Stress: This refers to how the emphasis is placed on different words within a phrase, which can affect pronunciation.
The best term to use depends on the specific type of pronunciation change you're describing.