Purpose: To examine the effect of disfluencies on perceptions of speech quality.  

Method: Audio samples were gathered from 20 bilingual speakers and rated by unsophisticated listeners using subjective fluency and quality measures.  

Results: Ratings were highest for speakers with a higher number of disfluencies. Analyses indicate a significant difference between the low and average rated groups.  

Conclusions: Higher disfluencies may contribute to better listener recall and positive listener perceptions of speaker effort for bilingual speakers.