Precision and imprecision in second language pronunciation

Any discipline requires precision in critical issues while tolerating and perhaps even welcoming imprecision in other respects. This editorial discusses areas in second language pronunciation research in which precision is required (the use of terminology such as intelligibility and comprehensibility), where it is not always required to the same extent (the use of phonetic and phonemic symbols), and where it is rarely required (in how L2 learners are given explanations or ways to pronounce more accurately). The article then describes the content of the full-length articles, commentary and reviews.