A Definitive Guide to the Posh English Accent: Who Has It?

When it comes to the posh English accent, opinions and perceptions can vary widely. This guide explores the posh English accent through historical and contemporary figures, along with personal anecdotes and expert insights.

Who Defines the Posh English Accent?

The concept of the posh English accent is often associated with class and tradition. In the annals of history, this accent has been linked to notable figures, both public and private, who have claimed its distinction.

Queen Elizabeth II

Once upon a time, the Queen Elizabeth II was the epitome of Received Pronunciation (RP), a type of posh accent.

Her accent, carefully cultivated and maintained throughout her reign, was the standard by which many others are measured.

David Attenborough: The Natural Born Broadcaster

Another figure who comes to mind is the renowned broadcaster and natural historian, David Attenborough. His distinctive and polished RP accent has made him a recognizable and respected voice in British media.

Hugh Grant: The Posh Actor

Actors like Hugh Grant often portray characters with a posh British demeanor, contributing to the public discourse on what constitutes a posh accent.

Beyond Public Figures: Personal Opinions

While these public figures set the benchmark for the posh accent, opinions on who has the “poshness” level depend on personal perspectives. To illustrate, let’s introduce a local anecdote:

“Mrs. Hemsworth, from no. 38 down the road in Earlsfield, has a particularly posh accent.”

While Mrs. Hemsworth may be a personal favorite in her community, others may differ or even be unaware of her accent. It’s a matter of subjective interpretation and anecdotal evidence.

Championing the Posh Accent: Brian Sewell

It’s hard to deny the impact of figures like Brian Sewell, the art critic of the London Evening Standard, who was famous for his posh accent. The late Sewell’s unique voice was a testament to the enduring appeal of the posh English accent in both the arts and everyday life.

Politics and the Posh Accent

While the posh accent can be associated with the upper class, it isn’t exclusive to it. Figures in politics can also exhibit this accent. For example, Jacob Rees-Mogg, a prominent UK political figure, is known for his RP accent, which reflects a posh English speech pattern.

This isn’t a feature exclusive to the conservative wing of politics. Figures from the Labour left-wing, such as Tony Benn, also speak with a similar accent. This shows that the posh accent transcends political lines and is a standard for those who value traditional British speech.

British Cultural Icons with Posh Accents

In the world of British culture, certain actors and actresses are celebrated for their posh accents. For instance, Penelope Keith and Joanna Lumley are known for their refined and elegant speech, often featured prominently in British classics and television shows.

There’s also the renowned film actor Sir Alec Guinness, whose performance style and accent contributed significantly to his iconic roles and the overall perception of posh English speaking.

The Elusive "Poshest Voice" Phenomenon

Even today, it’s challenging to definitively name the poshest voice, as opinions vary widely. In recent times, some individuals have been touted as the "poshest speaker," but others remain unknown except to their communities.

“The winner of a 'poshest voice' competition might well be an obscure individual, known only to their local community.”

This highlights the subjective nature of the posh accent and its place in modern British society.

Conclusion

While the posh English accent remains a cultural touchstone, its meaning and application are deeply personal. Whether you admire the Queen, David Attenborough, or simply the subtle accent of a local neighbor, the posh accent is an enduring symbol of British heritage and refinement.