I've found and been advised on different points of view on this matter. Is there an accepted manner as to how this is done? It's conversational and colloquial. In that, the persons within the conversation sometimes elongate certain words, either to emphasize them or as part of being teasing/playful in an interaction between the two persons in it. Note: that this isn't in just one single conversation, but different times, by different persons. Thank you.
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2Put simply, if you want to express how someone pronounces something, you write it somewhat phonetically. E.g. "I caaaan't do it" has an elongated "can't".– BarmarCommented Jun 19 at 15:04
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2What does "elongate certain words" mean?– LambieCommented Jun 19 at 15:55
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This question has actually been answered on English.SE, where it should have remained: english.stackexchange.com/questions/295776/…, see especially the answer by Nonnal.– BenCommented Jun 19 at 19:08
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1 Answer
You just repeat the letters, vowels or consonants, to indicate this. If that doesn't "read" exactly as you want, then rely on phonetic spelling to get the right feel.
This is one of the few instances where writing things phonetically works well; I would not use it for heavy accents, speech impediments, or other vocal affectations. It becomes tiring to read if used all the time.
But occasionally to emphasize the elongation, it is fine.
"Noooooooo, I wouldn't say thaaaaat," Marcia said, then winked at him.
Fred looked puzzled for a moment, then the light dawned. "Ohhhhhh. Okay then. Okay. Good to know."
He nodded slowly, then knit his brow.
Marcia briefly rolled her eyes. "The answer is yes, Fred. Yes. Now ask the question."
